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The Top 3 Alternatives to Pain Medication

Written By Harrison Chiropractic and Wellness on December 7, 2018

Acupuncture, Chiropractic, and Massage

We’re natural born problem solvers. 

Traffic is bad one way? We use our GPS to find an alternate route. The caterer backed out last minute? We slap on our aprons and do the best we can.

The good thing with our personal health care is that we don’t have to search far to solve our problems. Plenty of options exist for safe, alternative methods to typical pain medication – and they’re becoming increasingly popular.

Here, we’ll discuss these alternatives to pain medication: acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage. 

1. What is Chiropractic Care?

As the American Chiropractic Association explains, chiropractic care is health care that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous system. The effects these disorders produce mostly cause neuromusculoskeletal ailments like back pain, headaches, neck,  joint pain, and many other symptoms. 

In one study, a substantial number of adults who used chiropractic services over the course of a year reported positive outcomes for overall well-being and special health problems. 

Common Techniques Used in Chiropractic Care

Every case is specific and may require a combination of popular techniques. But these are a few basic procedures and phrases you could encounter with a chiropractor:

Spinal Manipulation

This is the most common therapeutic procedure used and its purpose is to restore joint mobility. Doctors will manually apply a controlled force onto said restricted joints.

Activator

A low force technique for those who are afraid of hearing the “pop”, or for our older patients who need a lower force applied to their spine.


 

2. What Exactly is Massage Therapy?

In short, massage therapy is the practice of manual manipulation of soft body tissues that help improve your health. Those soft body tissues include muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments. 

The Different Types of Massage Therapy

There are two different types of basic massage therapy – rehabilitative and relaxation. They both serve different purposes, however, both are very healing:

Rehabilitative

Commonly referred to as deep tissue, this musculoskeletal rehabilitation technique helps reduce pain in those who have a chronic or acute injury.

Relaxation

Think hot stone, Swedish, Shiatsu, etc. These types of massage help you feel relaxed while also relieving stress and pain points. 


 

3. What is Acupuncture?   

Acupuncture is an ancient practice where tiny, thin needles are inserted into your skin at specific points on the body. It is used to treat different kinds of pain - including headaches, back and neck pain, and even insomnia.

Acupuncture Methodology

The technique was developed in China thousands of years ago and is said to restore common imbalances in your body. 

But does it work? This alternative treatment has been proven to be an effective treatment for chronic pain. 

Alternative Medicine at Harrison Chiropractic and Wellness

We are pleased to be able to offer ALL 3 OF THESE WONDERFUL PRACTICES IN OUR OFFICE. No matter your health issue or pain points, we want to help you get better. And, by exploring alternative medicine at offices, you will see results quickly and safely.  

Our health care specialists at Harrison Chiropractic and Wellness can help restore your body and mind to better health. Contact us today! 801.966.3101 


Posted In: Chiropractic Acupuncture Massage Therapy