Why You Should Avoid Drugs for Back Pain

Chiropractic is based on the concept of aiding your body to heal naturally through spinal adjustments and lifestyle changes that promote wellness. For Dr. Messerschmidt, this involves working to restore your body's normal functioning to prevent the need for drugs or surgery. We find that many of our Juneau, AK patients are pleased to find a natural answer for their health conditions.

One benefit of chiropractic is that it helps people minimize or eliminate the use of drug treatments. Prescription medications are oftentimes issued to individuals who have back problems. This is such a significant concern that the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) issued a press release stating that opioid (painkiller) risks overshadow the advantages when prescribed for back pain.

Some of the most popular narcotics, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, include hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet), morphine, and codeine. Figures supplied by the AAN cite the fact that roughly half of the patients taking these types of substances for a period of three months are still dependent on them five years down the road. This can further complicate the problem of back pain and recovery, especially if an narcotic addiction occurs.

Compare that to chiropractic care which features natural healing and the advantages are crystal clear. While a pill might be useful at temporarily relieving the symptoms of a health condition, it's not a solution to the problem. Drugs don't fix your injured spine; it will only cover up the pain.

Dr. Messerschmidt will first examine you to get to the origin of your back pain and then work with you to solve the problem -- without the need for risky drugs.

If you're ready for relief of your pain, naturally, give our Juneau, AK office a call at (907) 789-1344 to make an appointment with Dr. Messerschmidt.

References

• Risk of opioids outweigh benefits for headache, low back pain, other conditions. American Academy of Neurology;September 29, 2014.
• What are opioids? National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved from http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/prescription-drugs/opioids/what-are-opioids