Greater use of nonpharmacologic therapies…appear necessary for more effective treatment of chronic low back pain. Tex Med. 2018;114(10):e1

Non-Pharmocologic Therapies

“Measuring treatments used by 202 patients with chronic low back pain in the PRECISION Pain Research Registry, this study determined the associations of opioid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy with clinical status. More than one-fourth of patients did not use nonpharmacologic treatments for low back pain. Patients age 50-59 and 60-79 years old were more likely to use opioids than younger patients. Patients using opioids reported greater pain and back-related disability than did patients using NSAIDs. Patients concurrently using opioids and NSAIDs reported greater back-related disability and poorer quality of life than did patients using no or other pharmacologic therapy. No significant associations between pharmacologic therapy and clinical status remained after controlling for potential confounders.

Neither opioids nor opioids combined with NSAIDs were more effective than just NSAIDs. Greater use of nonpharmacologic therapies and better second-line, nonopioid pharmacologic therapies appear necessary for more effective treatment of chronic low back pain.”
Tex Med. 2018;114(10):e1

Chiropractic

Chiropractic can be very effective with managing your chronic low back pain (LBP).  The most common therapeutic procedure performed by a Doctor of Chiropractic is known as "spinal manipulation," also called "chiropractic adjustment."   The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile - or restricted in their movement - as a result of a tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for the sufferer. Manipulation, or adjustment of the affected joint and tissues, restores mobility, thereby alleviating pain and muscle tightness, and allowing tissues to heal.

Natural alternatives to opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Dr. Bhattacharya’s MyoEase

A powerful nutritional support offering support for healthy muscle function. The select ingredients in this formula help soothe minor muscle aches and discomfort as well as naturally supporting muscle relaxation. Valerian root, passion flower, vitamin B6, calcium and magnesium. It is Dr. Bhattacharya’s go-to for non-habit-forming pain relief in the office.

Valerian root

Used for centuries to calm upset nerves and for treating mood problems, pain and headache. Today we use valerian root for its antispasmodic, calmative, tranquilizing pain-relieving effects.

Passion flower

Discovered in 1569, it is primarily used as a sedative or nervine to combat excessive nervousness and anxiety, to tranquilize and to promote sleep; as an anodyne, anti-spasmodic and anti-convulsant to treat dysmenorrhea, muscle cramps and so forth.

Magnesium

One of the most important essential minerals to promote proper nerve function. It is a key element in the stabilization of nerve cells, without which the nerve would be in a constant state of excitation (tetany).

Vitamin B6

Remarkable ability to function as a coenzyme which acts in concert with enzymes to speed up chemical reactions in the cells. It is important for myelin formation and required by the body to produce serotonin and norepinephrine and thus promote relaxation.

Reduce Sugar in the Daily Diet

Sugar consumption has a direct correlation to inflammation.  A rise in blood sugar causes a cascade of events which includes the release of inflammatory chemicals. There are multiple inflammatory chemicals released, including histamines, prostaglandins and interleukins.

These inflammatory chemicals cause an internal response that requires the immune system to step in and respond to the cleanup process. Elevated levels of inflammation dramatically accelerate degeneration in the body and can lead to a host of cell damaging diseases that greatly reduces longevity.

Take a High Quality Animal- Based Omega 3 Fats:

Omega- 3 fats block the chain of events that cause inflammation and regulate the migration of inflammatory cells and chemicals to the sites of inflammation.  Consumption of Omega 3 fats are found in dark green leafy vegetables, flaxseed, walnuts, butternuts, salmon, halibut, tuna, and avocados. By taking the natural route, one is unlikely to experience the side effects of gastro-intestinal or cardiovascular systems mentioned before that are common when taking anti-inflammatory drugs.

Supplement with Bromelain:

Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples. Although mostly used as a digestive aid, it has been linked to analgesic properties which have been documented to have influence on pain mediators such as bradykinin.  Bromelain accounts for many therapeutic benefits like the treatment of angina pectoris, bronchitis, sinusitis, surgical trauma, and thrombophlebitis, debridement of wounds, and enhanced absorption of drugs, particularly antibiotics. It also relieves osteoarthritis, diarrhea, and various cardiovascular disorders.

Supplement with Curcuminoids:

The anti-inflammatory properties of Curcuminoids has been shown to help with Osteoarthritis. Curcuminoids inhibits multiple pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines and prostaglandins. The effects of curcuminoids have been documented in many clinical trials demonstrating its ability to prevent or reduce cellular death and oxidative stress. Clinical trial dosages between 200mg-3,000mg for curcuminoids have shown benefits depending on the case.

Turmeric Forte is a curcuminoid bound with fenugreek that allows for optimal absorption and effectiveness. The herbs and their constituents support a healthy inflammation response, traditionally maintain and support healthy joints, provide antioxidant activity, support a healthy response to environmental stressors, and support healthy liver function.

Importance of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an important vitamin in the body that helps the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for overall bone and muscle health. Levels less than 32 ng/mL have been shown to reduce intestinal calcium absorption, reduced bone density, reduced immune system, increased insulin resistance and risk of many types of cancer. Sources of vitamin D include sun exposure, food intake and dietary supplement of Vitamin D3.

Vitamin C

A study was conducted by Dr. Zollinger et al, in a double-blind random study with participants with reflex sympathetic dystrophy post wrist fractures. Vitamin C was given pre-surgery and demonstrated no reports of reflex sympathetic dystrophy. The participants were given a daily dosage of 500mg 2 days prior to surgery and continued with vitamin C 7-week post-surgery.

Vitamin C is considered an anti-oxidant and is needed to manufacture collagen and work with the immune system. Collagen is needed to support the connective tissue, tendons and cartilage. It is also needed to prevent poor wound healing and supports healthy gums.

What do I do now?

It is important to meet with a qualified clinical nutritionist to review your personal health information to determine proper supplements and dietary recommendations. At our practice, we use a complement of diagnostic testing to put together a natural health plan to address your individual needs. Contact our office today to see how we can help! Download our app from your app store to book online and get rewards. Search for Crown Wellness Center.