Why Is Alternative Pain Relief Is On The Rise?

Pain is a common sensory reaction everyone experiences. However, some people experience chronic pain due to nerve problems or other underlying health issues. The Science Daily reports that little over 50 million US adults live with chronic pain, relying on conventional medicines to get by. In recent times, though, there has been a gradual shift to alternative pain relief therapy. So, what are these, and more importantly, what has accounted for the rise? Below are a few reasons.

Concerns about opioid addiction

Opioids are a class of medications for treating severe and persistent pain. Persons with chronic pain often use these medications, but these pain relievers often have a disadvantage. Due to their narcotic properties, there has been growing concern about their addictive tendencies. Indeed, opioids are highly addictive and can only be prescribed by a practicing physician. Unfortunately, some people have found ways to outwit the system and get more of these opioids than they need, leading to overdoses and, sometimes, dire outcomes for persons with chronic pain. Alternative pain relief options like acupuncture and massage therapies may be safer for those who want to avoid these issues. Although these may not be fast-acting like opioids, many opt for alternative methods because there is no risk of addiction.

Increasing awareness of conventional medication side effects

Every medicine has its side effects, but some are more dominant than others, which is a concern people have. For example, in your quest to manage chronic pain, you may have to contend with nausea, constipation, and sometimes, dizzy spells as side effects of a prescribed painkiller. Additionally, people have experienced adverse reactions to pain medications they never knew they were allergic to, such as skin reactions, seizures, and impaired vision. With alternative pain relief, however, the risk of adverse side effects is reduced, explaining the increase in the use of options like cbd oil and other methods with little to no side effects.

Developments in mainstream healthcare

Healthcare is changing, explaining why some previously acceptable treatment methods are no longer in use, and others have gained prominence. Over time, alternative and complementary medicines have become mainstream because of growing acceptance. People using these new methods have shown remarkable improvement, necessitating more research. Subsequent findings proved that alternative and complementary medicines trigger the body’s natural abilities to fight pain. That is why some medical doctors prescribe alternatives like Ayurvedic medicines as complementary pain treatment options. If you’re contemplating alternative pain relief, it is advisable to seek clearance from your primary care physician to avoid contraindications with any conventional medicine you may already be on.

Healthcare has steadily evolved in many ways. Key among these developments is the rise of alternative pain relief. The above reasons provide insight into why more people are gradually adopting alternative pain relief. It’s best to consult your doctor before adopting any pain relief options to ensure you achieve the best results without negatively impacting your health. Researching more into such options will also be prudent to help you make informed choices.