Chronic pain is a huge issue in our society. An estimated 116 million Americans have chronic pain each year. When meeting with new patients in the clinic, I am amazed how many people are on long-term opiods for pain management, though I must admit this is fortunately lessening but not fast enough. For years the drug companies were telling the physicians how safe and non-addictive they were for managing chronic pain, but unfortunately, that was not the truth. We are seeing a medical crisis in this country as we are the largest users of opiods in the world!
In response to a growing opioid epidemic, the CDC released opioid prescription guidelines in March 2016. The guidelines recognize that prescription opioids are appropriate in certain cases, including cancer treatment, palliative care, and end-of-life care, and also in certain acute care situations, if properly dosed.
Opiods are also helpful for short term pain relief immediately after surgery, not for long term musculoskeletal/nerve pain relief – ever wonder why your physician will not refill your prescription but prescribe something different? It is because they are protecting you from the ill effects of long term Opiod use.
Simple Facts about Long Term Use of Opiods:
That is why it is very important to work with your physician, possibly a de-prescribing physician, psychiatry or other mental health profession and your physical therapist to work through this time.
It can be very difficult and confusing for you.
But for other pain management, the CDC recommends nonopioid approaches including Physical Therapy.
Patients should choose Physical Therapy when ...
How Can Physical Therapy Help You?
Click Here to Read About One Man’s Journey
Our Physical Therapists Have Extensive Training on Chronic Pain.
Click Here to listen to Professor Lorimer Mosely talk about the Pain Revolution
We will then carefully design a program to introduce movement, aerobic activity, mindfulness and self care to gently and carefully move you towards independence and a fuller life to enjoy!
In the Great State of Wyoming, we do not need a Physician Prescription to get you started (unless you are covered by VA, Medicare, Medicaid or Worker’s Compensation). Though we would love to work closely with your physician to provide you the best care during these hard times. If you are not sure if Physical Therapy is right for you – we offer a 30 minute free consultation – no commitment necessary.