If you are suffering from back or neck pain, how would you treat it? Most people consult a medical doctor who will diagnose the condition by assessing symptoms such as pain and prescribe over-the-counter medication. In certain cases, you may be prescribed a stronger medication or even be recommended surgery to manage the pain. However, a number of people are foregoing medical doctors, and knocking on the doors of chiropractors in Santa Rosa, and getting very good results! There is a stark difference between OTC drugs and chiropractic care. Here is how chiropractic care is better than prescription drugs.
Pain Medication
Pain medication can be used to temporarily alleviate pain, and improve patient comfort. When prescribed by a certified medical practitioner, it can be a safe as well as an effective means for short-term pain relief. However, there are several risks to using painkillers, such as:
Addictive: Pain medication, when consumed over a long period of time, can be addictive and habit-forming. Many people also develop a tolerance to medication, and when this happens, they will require a higher dose, which in turn can lead to addiction.
Masks the Pain: Though prescription medication can be effective in relieving pain for a short time, it does not really solve any long-term problems. The medication also masks pain without actually curing it or treating the problem.
Side Effects: Most pain medications have side effects such as drowsiness and dulling of reflexes. Patients who need to operate heavy machinery, need to drive or perform complex tasks may find it hard to go about their work while taking pain medication.
Chiropractic Care
Much like prescription medication, chiropractic care too, can improve patient comfort and alleviate pain. However, it is very different from medication in several ways.
Treats the source of pain: Unlike prescription pain medication, chiropractic care does not mask pain. Chiropractors diagnose your symptoms, and suggest a treatment plan that will help resolve your problem.
Long-term relief: Since chiropractors operate by diagnosing the issue, and treating the root cause, it is safe to quote that chiropractic is a more permanent solution to the problem when compared to prescription medication.
No side effects: Chiropractic care is undoubtedly a lot more effective and safer than pain medicine. First of all, it is non-addictive, and doesn’t cause any grogginess or sluggishness. A patient is unlikely to ever develop a tolerance to it, and there is no risk of overdose!
Preventative: Chiropractic care is also a better option than prescription medication as it involves not just spinal manipulation, but also stretches, exercises, and lifestyle adjustment. This ensures better well-being along with improved quality of life.
If you suffer from chronic neck pain, or any other kind of illness or injury, contact Toth Chiropractic – a chiropractic practice in Santa Rosa you can trust! Call us at (707) 355-6535 to schedule an appointment.