Montgomery County's Resource for Non-Opioid Chronic Pain Treatments
Today, it’s widely known that prescription pain medications, especially opioids, can be highly addictive. But that wasn’t always the case, as opioids were once frequently prescribed to treat chronic pain, fueling what would become the opioid crisis in America.
It’s time to talk about alternatives to prescription pain medication. It’s a conversation that doesn’t happen often enough in Montgomery County. Alternative practices can fit into any lifestyle and help manage pain in healthier ways. Ask your doctor what might work for you.
Safe Alternatives
It’s natural to want relief from pain. Prescription opioids, as well as other medications, can provide short-term solutions for pain. But many alternative treatment options often work better for long-term pain management—all without the risks of addiction.
Effective Pain Management Alternatives
Acupuncture
Uses needles to stimulate points on or under the skin to balance the body's energy and encourage healing.
Chiropractic
Adjusts the body’s alignment to improve function and help the body heal itself.
Massage Therapy
Helps rehabilitate injuries and improve stiffness and soreness.
Meditation
Helps to shift the mind’s focus to something quiet and calm, helping to reduce inflammation.
Mental Health Therapy
Helps treat issues like anxiety or depression that can coincide with chronic pain.
Over-The-Counter Medication
Helps reduce general pain and, depending on the medication, inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Helps alleviate inflammation and stiffness, while restoring flexibility and strength.
Steroid Injection
Targets specific areas of the body with steroids or numbing medication.
Stretching
Helps reduce tension in muscles and increases flexibility, circulation, and range of motion.
Yoga
Promotes relaxation and flexibility through body postures and meditation.
Safe Tips for Managing Pain
Find Positive Distractions
Activities like reading or cooking can take your mind off your pain.
Get A Good Night’s Sleep
Healthy amounts of sleep support your well-being and immune system.
Pace Yourself
Recognize when you’re feeling good and avoid undoing positive progress.
Track Your Pain Daily
Monitor your progress and process your emotions.
Rise Above The Challenge
If you're a student athlete, you know a thing or two about sports injuries. But did you know that the pain medications given for sports injuries can be addictive? Rise above the challenge and talk to a parent, coach, or trainer about alternative ways you can heal faster and get back in the game sooner.
