The 2016 Annual Overdose Report
It was revealed a growing health crisis is affecting record numbers of Australian patients. The key facts and figures from this report are summarised below:
- 58% of non-cancer opioid prescriptions are for musculoskeletal problems
- Between the years 2004 and 2014 there was a 61% increase in prescription opioid deaths
- 69% of drug-related deaths in Australia come from prescription medications
- Australians aged between 40 and 49 are the most likely to die from drug overdose
In the face of these figures, and as a healthcare practitioner working to make the community better, surely there has to be a better way. For those people suffering from musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, manual therapies (including Chiropractic) should be tried in the first instance.
Non-Invasive Approaches Should Be Explored Earlier
We know that ~80% of Australians will experience back pain at some point during their lifetime. The research also tells us that
Chiropractic is an effective way to treat back pain. Adding to this, another benefit of Chiropractic care is that it’s not addictive and non-invasive. Further research concludes that opioids have some effectiveness in treating back pain however are associated with side effects such as addiction. Painkillers do not address underlying causes of back pain, they only provide relief from pain. Medical authorities should feel more confident working with Chiropractors in reducing the over-prescription of pain killers for musculoskeletal issues.
Guest Author: Dr. Paul Calladine