Choosing Safe Pain Management: Physical Therapy vs. Pain Killers
on Friday, September 6, 2024
Understanding Pain and Its Role in the Body
Pain is a complex and subjective experience that everyone understands, yet it can be difficult to define precisely. From the moment we are born, we instinctively recognize pain, even if we cannot articulate it. Pain is typically a response to tissue damage and serves as part of the body’s defense mechanism, warning us to avoid actions that could cause further harm. However, the way people experience and describe pain varies significantly, making it challenging to diagnose and treat effectively.
Traditional Pain Management: The Rise of Opioids
In recent decades, opioids have become a prevalent method for managing pain in the United States. Medications such as Vicodin, OxyContin, and methadone, along with combination drugs like Percocet, are commonly prescribed to relieve pain. While opioids can be an appropriate part of medical treatment in certain cases, their use comes with significant risks, including:
- Depression: Long-term opioid use can lead to mood disorders, including depression.
- Overdose: The potential for overdose is a serious concern, particularly with prolonged use.
- Addiction: Opioids are highly addictive, and even short-term use can lead to dependence.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping opioid use can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to discontinue.
Moreover, individuals addicted to prescription opioids are 40 times more likely to develop an addiction to heroin, highlighting the dangerous path that opioid dependence can lead to.
The Shift Toward Safe Alternatives: Why Physical Therapy?
In response to the opioid crisis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations have begun urging healthcare providers to reduce opioid prescriptions in favor of safer alternatives like physical therapy. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has launched the #ChoosePT campaign to educate the public on the benefits of physical therapy for pain management. Here are five compelling reasons to choose physical therapy over opioids:
1. When the Risks of Opioids Outweigh the Benefits
Opioids can have severe side effects that may be worse than the pain they are intended to treat. Physical therapy offers a safer alternative without the risk of addiction or other harmful consequences.
2. When Masking Pain Isn’t Enough
Opioids primarily mask pain without addressing the underlying cause. Physical therapy, on the other hand, can provide long-term solutions by targeting the root of the pain through exercise, manual therapy, and education.
3. When Dealing with Specific Pain Areas
For pain localized to areas such as the lower back, hips, knees, or conditions like fibromyalgia, physical therapy has been shown to be particularly effective. Properly guided exercise and therapy can significantly reduce pain in these areas.
4. When Opioids Are Prescribed
Even if you are prescribed opioids, physical therapy can still play a crucial role in your recovery. Incorporating physical therapy alongside medication can enhance healing and reduce the reliance on opioids.
5. When Pain Becomes Chronic
Pain that persists for more than 90 days is considered chronic and requires a different approach. Physical therapy can be highly effective in managing chronic pain by addressing both physical and lifestyle factors.
How Physical Therapy Helps Manage Pain
The APTA outlines several ways in which physical therapists can help patients manage pain effectively:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise is a cornerstone of physical therapy. Studies have shown that individuals who exercise regularly experience less pain. Your physical therapist will develop a personalized exercise plan to help strengthen your body and reduce pain.
2. Manual Therapy
Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques, such as joint and soft tissue mobilization, that help improve mobility and reduce pain. This approach can be particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis and musculoskeletal injuries.
3. Education
Physical therapists provide valuable education on how to manage pain outside the clinic. This includes advice on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications that can prevent pain from recurring.
4. Support
Physical therapists offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout your treatment. They act as both coaches and cheerleaders, helping you stay motivated and committed to your recovery.
Why Choose Renew Physical Therapy for Pain Management?
At Renew Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to providing safe and effective pain management alternatives to opioids. Our clinic in Portland offers comprehensive physical therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs. We focus on treating the root cause of your pain through personalized exercise programs, manual therapy, and patient education.
Our goal is to help you achieve lasting pain relief without the risks associated with opioids. Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic pain, our experienced team is here to support you on your journey to recovery.
Renew Your Body at Renew Physical Therapy
Renew Physical Therapy is an independent manual physical therapy clinic that was established in December 2015 by Michael and Heidi Cantwell. Our facility features three private treatment rooms and an open gym area to treat all our patients’ needs. If you’ve suffered from chronic pain, an auto or work–related injury, or any other issues allow us to help. See our full list of services to see the types of physical therapy we offer. You can find us at 11010 SE Division Street in Portland, Oregon.
Visit our About Us page to learn more about our practice, clinic, and staff. Call us at 503.928.4914 to schedule an appointment.
