The Shocking Truth About Back Pain Prescription Drugs

Posted on Jan 20, 2019


Do you have back pain? Have you been asked by a doctor to take OxyContin, Percocet, or Vicodin in order to feel better? If so, you should know that these back pain prescription drugs are typically synthetic derivatives of the narcotic morphine. And their side effects can be… rough, to say the least. Basically, a lot of people are taking opioids to feel better, but the problem is they become addicted to them and could very easily overdose, leading to… death. In 2016, for instance, overdoses accounted for some 42,000 deaths across the country. And in 2017 the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared opioid abuse to be a public health emergency.

Besides death, opioid use can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation in the short term. Over time, it can lead to depression, liver damage, brain damage (due to hypoxia, resulting from respiratory depression) and sexual dysfunction.

The worst thing about opioid use, though, is how easy it is to become dependent on the pills just to get through everyday life. Once you start, it’s hard to stop, right? Opioids are addictive. If and when you’re told you can’t have anymore, what are you likely to do? You might try and steal money to fund your habit. You might try and steal drugs from others you know. Relationships might break down thanks to your new personality. Work performance will suffer, which ends up, typically, resulting in financial problems. So, the drug that was supposed to make your back pain feel better ends up ruining your whole life. You become someone you’re not– stealing, lying, and doing whatever it takes to get more pills. One overdose and you’re dead. This is not good, at all!

So what’s a person with back pain to do? Some take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories like Motrin, Advil or Excedrin. These drugs help decrease inflammation and swelling. They can also cause digestive problems like nausea, diarrhea, heartburn and stomach pain. Other potential risks can include internal bleeding, ulcers, heart problems and kidney damage.

Others rely on acetaminophen, commonly sold under the brand Tylenol, which works well for managing mild/moderate pain. What’s a risk of taking acetaminophen? It can damage your liver if taken in high doses. You shouldn’t take more than 3,000 milligrams daily.

Non-drug treatments for back pain can include ice, massage, exercise, physical therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. If you want to avoid taking opioids and other drugs for back pain relief, please call Lakewoods Chiropractic and schedule an appointment. The number is 651-464-0800.

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Lakewoods Chiropractic
Lakewoods Chiropractic
385 Google reviews
SALLY DETLEFSEN
SALLY DETLEFSEN
September 26, 2022.
I am amazed at how much better I feel since coming to Lakewoods. The doctors and staff are amazing.
Lukas Drayna
Lukas Drayna
September 21, 2022.
Great friendly staff. They focus on the target area’s to ensure your body is happy and healthy !
Michael F.
Michael F.
September 13, 2022.
Lakewoods Chiropractic is awesome. Friendly, welcoming, and professional Environment. They make you feel comfortable. Definitely recommend Lakewoods. I'm well on the road to recovery. Keep up the good work.
tone2403
tone2403
August 30, 2022.
Definitely recommend Lakewoods. When I went in I was in very rough shape. After a few weeks of adjustments I'm feeling better then ever. Great staff and very knowledgeable. They take the time to really make you understand the process.
Eric Russell
Eric Russell
August 25, 2022.
Jason and his staff are the best. Since my 1st visit, they always informed on your progress and had your health as #1 priority.
Angel L Colon Jr
Angel L Colon Jr
August 11, 2022.
Excellent service, friendly accommodating staff. Awesome family friendly services. Highly recommend!!!
Carrie Davis
Carrie Davis
August 3, 2022.
By far the best chiropractor I’ve ever used. They customize a plan just for you and don’t use a one size fits all approach. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!! Thank you!!!
Justin W
Justin W
July 28, 2022.
Great place!
Jennifer Thelen
Jennifer Thelen
July 21, 2022.
I have been experiencing low back pain for at least 10 rememberable years and decided on a whim to try chiropractic care at Lakewoods. I had never been to a chiropractor before so I had no expectations that it would work or not but after just my first adjustment I had instant relief for the first time in 10 years. I have since been super impressed with how everything has been explained to me and how my care plan has been formed. The staff are all very kind and have been very helpful as well!