There is a serious opioid crisis here in the United States. As of 2017, opioid addiction and abuse has been declared a health emergency. And for good reason. Four in five new heroin users start by misusing prescription painkillers. One in three long-term opioid users say they are addicted or physically dependent. Now, more than ever, doctors are looking for opioid alternatives for their patients.

Physical therapy is quickly becoming the preferred alternative to opioids. In March 2016, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidelines for opioid prescription. The guidelines recognized that while opioids are still appropriate for some situations (cancer treatment, palliative care and end-of-life care), many cases of pain can be alleviated through non-pharmacological means – like physical therapy.

For decades, physicians have been pressured to prescribe pain medication as a first-line treatment for chronic pain. But the consequences of these prescriptions is only now starting to come into focus. The reality is that the risks of using opioids outweigh the rewards. Potential side effects of opioids include depression, overdose, and addiction – not to mention withdrawal symptoms when stopping use.

“Experts agreed that opioids should not be considered firstline or routine therapy for chronic pain,” the CDC guidelines state. Even in cases when evidence on the long-term benefits of non-opioid therapies is limited, “risks are much lower” with non-opioid treatment plans, such as physical therapy.

Additionally, opioids only mask pain by blocking signals to the brain. Once a patient stops taking medication, the pain will return. In some cases, the pain is even worse as a result of the opioid dependence. Physical therapy, on the other hand, treats the cause of chronic pain. From sports injuries to joint pain, physical therapy can help people live pain free without medication.

At Premier Physical Therapy, we work closely with patients and physicians to develop a customized plan for pain. Our 5-Star Plan for pain starts with a thorough examination, followed up with one-on-one treatment and detailed progress surveys. We also educate patients on preventative care techniques – so they can avoid future injury.

So before you agree to a prescription for opioids, consult with your physician to see if physical therapy is an alternative to opioid treatment. The CDC says it best: “Given the substantial evidence gaps on opioids, uncertain benefits of long-term use and potential for serious harm, patient education and discussion before starting opioid therapy are critical so that patient preferences and values can be understood and used to inform clinical decisions,” – CDC guidelines on opioid prescription.

Premier Physical Therapy is the only provider in the region to offer a 5-Star Plan for pain. Our comprehensive approach to pain relief is what sets us apart – and why 85% of doctors said they would send their own family to Premier as their first choice. Do you suffer from chronic pain? Call us today at 573-335-7868.