Alternative Medicine

Alternatives to Manage Chronic Pain

Even with opiate abuse now at epidemic proportions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other leading health organizations, nearly 40 percent of the population take painkillers for legitimate reasons. While some patients do benefit from such medications when taken properly, concerns over addiction have both doctors and patients exploring alternative options to opiates to manage chronic pain.


Regenerative Tissue Injections

By intensifying the population of the bodies own natural regenerative cells , or with amniotic fluids and or Exosomes the management of Chronic pain can be achieved through healing the discomfort from within, combined with appropriate strengthening and restorative physical therapies this is the best possible route to healing.


Exercise Specific to Abilities

While it may seem counterproductive to exercise with chronic pain, the right form of exercise can strengthen muscles and joints enough to provide more support while making daily movements. The good thing about exercise is that it can be tailored to a patient’s abilities and modified as endurance and strength improves. Forms of exercise that may be appropriate for patients with chronic pain include:


  • Core strengthening exercises
  • Yoga and Pilates
  • Low-impact aerobics
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treatment modalities

Electrotherapy

The purpose of electrotherapy is to minimize discomfort during alternative healing treatments by delivering mild electrical impulses to the affected area. The electricity interferes with how signals are sent by nerves to the brain, which alters the perception of pain.


Common forms of electrotherapy include TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) units, interferential (IF) stimulation, and HVGPS (high voltage pulsed galvanic stimulation). The treatment typically involves electrodes, an implantable unit, and a handheld device that patients can use to control the level of stimulation. Electrotherapy may ease chronic pain due to:


  • Sciatica or similar sources of nerve pain
  • Low back and neck pain
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Diabetic nerve pain

Injections

Injections relieve pain by delivering a local anesthetic and some type of anti-inflammatory medication (usually a steroid) directly to the affected area. The relief is temporary since injections do not actually treat the source of pain. However, the relief experienced often allows patients to play more of an active role in physical therapy, which may further ease discomfort as strength, stability, and range of motion improve.


For times when medication is needed to ease chronic pain, patients may benefit from non-opiate drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants. Chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture can and may also help some patients minimize their discomfort.


Contact us today to schedule your consultation at Lone Star Biogenetics.

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