The Dangers of Medication for Back Pain

The most common medications prescribed for back pain are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.  (NSAID’s)  The medication works by stopping the swelling associated with injured tissues.  By controlling swelling, you can reduce the pain and promote healing.  At least that’s how they work in theory.

The research does show that NSAID’s are effective in reducing back pain.  However, there can be severe side effects.

16,500 people die every year as a result of taken prescription pain medication and another 20,000 people die from taken over the counter pain relievers. (New England Journal of Medicine 1999) The deaths occur mostly form gastro-intestinal bleeding because these drugs are really tough on the linings of the stomach and intestines.  But, there are other dangers as well.

The number one reason for liver failure in America is the use of NSAID’s.  The kidneys also get damaged and failure of these vital organs is also.  1000 doses of NSAID’s in a lifetime doubles the risk of renal disease. (New England Journal of Medicine 1994)

Those who consumed the highest amounts of NSAID’s increased their risk of dementia including Alzheimer’s dementia by 66% (Neurology, 2009)

What the drug companies won’t tell you is that chiropractic has been shown to be five times more effective than the NSAID’s Celebrex and Vioxx in the treatment of chronic  low back pain. (Spine 2003)  And, chiropractic has an impeccable safety record.

To find out more about how I treat back pain, log on to www.newbackpainreliefinfo.com