Drug-free Approaches to Relieve Chronic Pain
With the risks of treating chronic pain with opioids, the focus has shifted to non-invasive treatments. The new guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly discourage doctors from prescribing opiate painkillers for back pain, arthritis, migraine, and other chronic conditions. Modern pain management includes a combination of therapies and non-invasive coping techniques.
The “gate control theory” which originated in the 1960s is a major development in the field of pain management. According to this theory, the spinal cord houses a neurological "gate" that can block pain signals or allow them to continue on to the brain. This theory suggests that pain signals can be blocked from reaching the brain by sending alternate signals through these pathways. This has led to the development of various non-invasive alternatives to painkilling medication.
Non-invasive Treatments for Chronic Pain In a professional pain management center, non-invasive techniques are used alone or in combination with medication. They consist of pharmacological, non-pharmacological, psychological and physical modalities. Pharmacological treatments: These include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, anti-seizure medications, and corticosteroids. Non-pharmacological treatments include: Physical therapy exercises stretch the sore muscles, increase their flexibility, and improve function Chiropractic adjustment is a pain relief option for muscles, joints, bones, and connective tissue. It involves hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to properly align the musculoskeletal structure and relieve pain. Massage therapy can relieve stress, relax tightened muscles, and increase endorphins which are chemicals that interact with the opiate receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain.
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Physical modalities include: Non-surgical spinal decompression involves the use of special equipment to apply distraction forces to treat disc injuries in the neck and lower back, and address pain. Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation or swelling. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses low-voltage electrical current to relieve acute and chronic pain. Heat or cold therapy: Ice is used if the area is red, swollen, inflamed, or if for an acute injury to cool the area down and check inflammation. Heat is typically to increase blood flow or circulation in an area, which improves tissue elasticity or flexibility Psychological therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy and multidisciplinary rehabilitation
Choose the Right Pain Management Center Pain treatment is available in multispecialty health care centers in New York. Choosing an established center will ensure customized care. In such centers, pain management doctors will work with other healthcare specialists to diagnose the patient’s condition, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and ensure comprehensive care to relieve pain, improve function and mobility, and enhance quality of life.
(718) 769-2521
www.hqbk.com