by: Robert Regler

Pain management has seen numerous looks throughout the years. Not too long ago, doctors used to prescribe prescription opioids at alarmingly high rates for today’s standards. Doctors in the 1900’s were simply unaware of the domino effect that opioids would have on society and the epidemic we would be facing today. They would prescribe them too often and give more than needed. Now that we are aware of the dangers that opioids can present, the world is seeking alternative ways to combat chronic pain. Something that has become increasingly popular in the recent years has been Eastern medicine. Though it has been around for centuries, Eastern medicine has been become increasingly used today. However, what exactly is Eastern medicine and is it enough to replace the system we have today?

Contrary to its name, Eastern medicine encompasses more than just something you take when you are feeling sick. Eastern medicine can include acupuncture, diet, herbal therapy, meditation, exercise, and massage. Eastern medicine believes that the body is capable of healing itself, however it needs assistance to get there. The human body contains trillions of cells that work together to keep the body flowing into its everyday state. When the body becomes sick, these cells work together to bring balance back. Though Eastern medicine focuses more on the energy your body radiates, it essentially follows this ideology. Things such as acupuncture, massage, and diet can all help the body recover by keeping your body healthy and ready to combat sickness.

Even though Eastern medicine seems like a viable alternative for treating pain management, the jury is still out on some practices. For instance, even though many states are moving towards acupuncture therapy as an alternative to prescribing opioids, there still is not enough evidence that proves its effectiveness in treating chronic pain. Though there have been testimonials promoting it, we still do not have enough evidence to promote it as an effective practice. However, some aspects of Eastern medicine are proven to combat overall illness. Some aspects promoted in Eastern medicine such as exercise and a well-balanced diet are proven to keep the body healthy.

Even though the jury is still out on Eastern medicine as a 100 percent alternative to prescription opioids, it might be worth asking your healthcare provider about alternative treatments to pain management. If anything, it can be used as something that can help speed the process of healing. There are things we can do on an everyday basis to prevent our bodies from becoming sick that all stem back to an Eastern medicine philosophy (such as exercise and diet). With some research and a doctor’s guidance, these practices can start to see an uptick in the use of Eastern medicine. If you do have any questions you can contact the Southwest Council at (856)-794-1011 or visit us online at www.southwestcouncil.org.

Sources:

https://saferlockrx.com/7-alternatives-to-opioids-for-pain-management/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/chinese-medicine

https://www.bandgrip.com/blog/the-body-is-built-to-heal-itself-but-sometimes-it-needs-help

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/acupuncture-over-opioids-for-pain-relief