What about pain killers ?
Cheaper than Physio ?
Easy to take and proven right ?
Brilliant short term option?
Directions on the box?
Easy DIY how to guide who needs help – BUT what about the side effects?
Pills to cure all ills
Tablets which contain codeine, include brand names such as Nurofen Plus and Solpadeine Plus. They are sold without prescription and are used every day by tens of thousands of people to ease headaches, back problems and pain.
Official figures show that tens of thousands of people have become dependent on the drugs, many accidentally, with women more likely to develop a habit.
Reality suggests the opposite ”stronger the medicine” the “stronger” and more miserable the side effects. Painkillers don’t “cure” they pain they block physiological pathways thereby reducing inflammation. Importantly a box of Ibuprofen wont give you day to day advice, encourage you set goals or watch you while your recover. Are they then a good short term option.
Official estimates state that 32,000 people are addicted to the painkillers but the MPs said that this was just the “tip of the iceberg”.
Over time some pain killers cause mental confusion, poor performance ( at work or driving! ) , gastro – intestinal inflammation, heart problems, kidney failure etc. Many have been withdrawn due to the adverse effects on heart muscles.
Many pharmacological products are clinically tested in isolation, in controlled conditions with no stress or any other tablets being taken in consideration. In reality drugs are often taken by patients together with other medication. There are huge addiction problems. More recently the singer Michael Jackson,.
Long term effects of pain killers are quite well documented. Combined this with poor lifestyle habits painkillers may not be the best option long term for treatment of injuries especially if they are ongoing. Importantly they don’t educate people like physios and Osteopaths do. Acupuncture may be as effective as steroids for tendon injuries and the only side effect is a little more time and money. Analgesics may well encourage pain sufferers into more serious organ problems.
If your condition is complex, non resolving or if your in a great deal of pain – perhaps we can help. We involve other specialist practitioners with your treatment on the same day often during the same session. We also have a mobile Physio faster service that will visit you at home or office.
“Our success in treating difficult conditions is one of the characteristics that defines us”
Good luck
Ian Norman Osteopath and Practice Director.
