Ohio Declares Drug-Free Pain Management Month

September is officially Drug-Free Pain Management Month in Ohio, declared by State Governor John Kasich and Canton Mayer Thomas Bernabei: "The Ohio State Chiropractic Association worked with Governor Kasich's Office to celebrate the contributions that non-pharmacological health care professionals have made to patients all over Ohio.

This month celebrates those health care practitioners who utilize non-drug treatments, while raising awareness on the dangers that prescription drugs can present. This month also celebrates alternative health care options including chiropractic, acupuncture, nutritional support, massage therapy, exercise and lifestyle changes. 
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'This is another great step towards raising awareness of the alternatives to pharmacological care. We are happy that Governor Kasich and his administration acknowledge the importance of drug-free pain management and are grateful for his support,' said OSCA President, Dr. Jerrold Simon . 'We hope more state officials continue to acknowledge the importance of non-pharmacological care, including chiropractic, and continue to push for increased parity, awareness, benefits of utilizing these vital health care professionals.'"

With pharmacologic pain management (using prescriptions opioids) recognized as one of the factors contributing to the opioid epidemic, it's important to recognize and celebrate safer alternatives like chiropractic. Recent studies have shown opioids are less effective and far more risky that long believed. In contrast, research shows drug-free treatments like chiropractic can provide better relief without the risks and side-effects of drugs, and at a lower cost. Updated pain treatment guidelines recommend patients with non-terminal musculoskeletal pain try chiropractic first and only use opioids as a last resort in addition to drug-free treatment.

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