America's Ongoing Opioid Catastrophe: Behind the PainKiller Netflix Series
- Dr. E
- Aug 27, 2023
- 19 min read
Updated: Feb 11
The hit Netflix expose PainKiller has spotlighted America's ongoing opioid catastrophe. After bingeing the infuriating series, I felt compelled to dive deeper to understand the facts and figures and raise awareness around this public health emergency.
The facts around the crisis are staggering.
Despite making up only 4% of the global population, the U.S. consumes 80% of the world's oxycodone and 99% of its hydrocodone [1].
From 1999 to 2021, well over 600,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses [2].
In 2021 alone, opioids caused over 68,000 of the roughly 100,000 total overdose deaths nationwide - 75% of the annual total [3].
This amounts to 128 opioid overdose deaths daily [4].
Experts estimate the economic burden exceeds $78 billion per year [5].
PainKiller properly captures the greed and regulatory failures behind these shocking stats. While eye-opening, it's also infuriating to see the scale of lives lost and families destroyed. This disaster demands action, from holding pharma and physicians accountable to improving addiction treatment access. After watching, I'm committed to helping however I can. The losses must stop, and this tragedy has to end.
The Netflix series follows the rapid rise of OxyContin in the 1990s, fueled by Purdue Pharma's ruthless marketing tactics. The Sackler family business promoted their new narcotic painkiller as a non-addictive, nearly magical remedy for chronic pain, burying doctors in biased studies and misleading claims [6].
Under the direction of OG “influencer” Dr. Richard Sackler, Purdue launched a remarkable advertising campaign, effectively bribing physicians to write more scripts and crank up the dosages [7]. Oxy sales exploded from $45 million to $1 billion in just a four year period [8].
That's a 2000% increase in four years. Houston, we have opioid epidemic ignition..
Purdue's “blizzard of prescriptions” (a direct quote from Sackler highlighting his goal with the campaign) left devastation in its wake. By 2007, Purdue pled guilty to deceiving doctors about Oxy's addictive qualities, paying a measly $634 million fine that let the Sacklers escape jail time [9]. The drug was never pulled from the market.
By 2010, Oxy alone generated $3 billion for Purdue [10]. As addicts were cut off, millions switched to heroin, while overdose deaths skyrocketed [11]. By 2012, over 13 million American adults were using opioid painkillers, and two million U.S. residents were either abusing opioids or downright addicted to them. From 1999 to 2019, opioids killed nearly 500,000 Americans [12].
Yet even amid growing awareness of these risks, opioid prescriptions remain unchecked. In 2019, 258 million prescriptions were written, which is equivalent to one for every single adult in the country [13]! As of 2022, drug overdoses kill the equivalent of a packed 747 airplane (roughly 660 people) every two days [14].
Read that again, and then say it with me... 3.. 2.. 1... W. T. F. !?
This ongoing crisis shines a light on the greed of pharma execs who value profits over people. The Sacklers built an empire by addicting millions, facing minimal consequences thanks to deep pockets and slick legal protections. Perhaps the tides are finally turning, but for grieving families, things will never be made right.
MSM.. YOU THERE!?
You probably have seen a media program or two on the dangers of opioids by now, if it was properly addressed it would be on the news every night. Despite some coverage here and there, mainstream media dodges these stories better than Neo dodges bullets in The Matrix, likely due to extensive pharmaceutical sponsorship [15]. However, research increasingly reveals the ineffectiveness and ironic harms of long-term opioid use for chronic pain.
Multiple studies demonstrate that prolonged opioid use often worsens pain sensitivity, a phenomenon known as opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) [16]. While not fully understood, the mechanisms likely involve neuroplastic (brain) changes from chronic exposure [17].
Up to 30% of patients on opioids develop OIH, experiencing increased pain, diffuse tenderness, and new sensitivities [18]. One study found heightened pain after only one month of oral oxycodone [19]. For intravenous morphine, hyperalgesia struck within just 7-10 days [20].
In summary, evidence indicates opioids frequently fail to provide safe, effective, or even long-lasting pain relief, and can instead even amplify pain via maladaptive neuroplasticity. Withdrawal can also temporarily worsen pain before it improves [21]. This data belies pharma marketing claims of effective long-term use, but the scripts just keep getting written.
Media self-censorship on these risks, whether from financial conflicts or political pressures, does a disservice to public health. Patients deserve transparency regarding the now well-documented dangerous effects of opioids. Only through accurate education and open discourse can this ongoing crisis be stemmed.
S@ck’s of You Know What
The Sackler family recently took a sucker punch to the jaw courtesy of the Supreme Court. The court slammed the brakes on a cushy (to insanely profitable pharma companies) settlement deal that would've let the pharma fortune family buy forgiveness for their role in the opioid crisis.
The agreement called for the Sacklers to pony up $6 billion to victims, relative scraps compared to their $10+ billion OxyContin profits, and the opportunity cost of the lives lost. In return, they'd secure immunity from further lawsuits tied to their addictive painkiller. But the Biden Bunch cried foul, arguing the rich shouldn't get to swan dive into a Scrooge McDuck money vault while sidestepping accountability. Well, we hope this is what their intention is, it's hard to say with this administration. we can hope for true accountability, but I wouldn't hold my breath for it to happen. Chances are there's an even better deal in store for the Sackler family, hence the delay.
So we wait until the case gets reheard, and the Sacklers may (a very big MAY) face their long-overdue reckoning. See, the family's never been criminally charged for Purdue's part in sparking the epidemic, despite mass marketing Oxy to damn near anyone with a pulse. They still claim ignorance, swearing they didn't know their wonder drug was heroin in a pill bottle.
But if the Feds had busted Purdue execs way back in '07 as they should've, maybe this slow-motion trainwreck could've been averted. Instead, the Sacklers kept raking in blood money while communities burned. No ghost of pharma past counseling conscience - just profits over people right into the grave.
Now with lawsuits mounting and reputations torched, the fam's aiming for easy redemption via checkbook. Justice won't come cheap, but what's $6 Billion to a company that made more than $10 Billion just from a single drug? Money is no object to these people.
Mad Yet?
I wasn't trying to mess up your day, but I hope you’re a little irked by now. I deal with the repercussions of reckless medicine every day, and it's exhausting.
It’s time to cut the sh!t and find better solutions for pain than the opioids, NSAIDS, and muscle relaxers your emergency room physician is sure to throw at you every time you present with a significant musculoskeletal complaint. I hope after reading this article you won’t even let an opioid enter your home.
Pain is a part of life, accidents happen, and some things are going to hurt. If you want to take a look at those references do so (I put them there so I didn't just sound like an angry Chiropractor, rambling on and making up figures), but then jump past them to the next section and browse the alternatives for pain I've come up with (also complete with scientific references so you know I'm not just blowing smoke)
References:
[13] https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/prescription/graphs.html
Better Alternatives for Pain:
I listed these in somewhat of an order alluding to the order in which I would try them, and also in order from what would be helpful in an acute pain scenario to a chronic scenario.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil - a non-psychoactive compound from cannabis plants that reduces inflammation and discomfort, has become a recent go-to for my common aches and pains from old sports injuries, work, and workout-related physical stress. It has even quelled a lot of my intermittent anxiety and dramatically improved my sleep.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical responsible for marijuana's high, CBD does not cause intoxication or impairment [1]. Instead, CBD interacts with receptors in the endocannabinoid system to modulate pain, anxiety, and other processes in the brain and body [2].
Numerous studies confirm CBD's pain-relieving effects. A 2012 UK study found CBD significantly improved pain, muscle spasms, sleep, and bladder function in multiple sclerosis patients [3]. A 2017 literature review concluded that CBD can reduce migraine frequency by nearly 50% and impact serotonin receptors involved in pain regulation [4].
CBD's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties have also been harnessed by the medical community. Beverly Hills surgeon Dr. Garo Kassabian reported that CBD eased his patients' post-operative pain and anxiety: "It's been a game-changer for my practice," he stated [5].
In user surveys, chronic pain patients like Nik Richie call CBD “miraculous.” After years of worsening multiple sclerosis symptoms, severe pain, and depression, Richie considered suicide. “CBD oil changed all that,” he said. “I feel like I actively live without the disease now” [6].
These pain-relieving effects stem from CBD's influence on the endocannabinoid system receptors as well as serotonin receptors involved in pain processing [7,8]. CBD may also improve sleep, allowing the body to heal faster [9].
In conclusion, CBD offers natural pain relief without the disturbing side effects of opioids and other pharmaceuticals [10]. Those with chronic conditions like arthritis, migraines, multiple sclerosis, or fibromyalgia may benefit from adding lab-tested, organic CBD oil to their self-care regimen [11]. Consult a doctor before trying CBD, as it can interact with certain medications.
CBD owes its healing properties to its anti-inflammatory action on receptors in the brain and immune system. It also improves sleep, which allows the body to heal faster. All this without the disturbing side effects of opioids and other pharmaceuticals.
So if you suffer from MS, migraines, arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other chronic pain, consider adding CBD oil to your self-care routine.
I personally work with a company called Kuribl, because they use high-quality, lab-tested CBD derived from organic hemp, and are incredibly well-researched, organized, and a pleasure to deal with. Clicking any pictures with their branding will take you to a website with my referral discounts baked in.
Give your body the natural pain relief it deserves. The difference could be life-changing.
References for CBD:
[1] https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5436334/
ICE / HEAT
Ice Therapy
- Reduces acute inflammation and pain by constricting blood vessels and lowering metabolic activity [1]
- Most effective for new injuries within the first 72 hours when inflammation is high [2]
- Apply ice packs or cold water immersion of 50-59°F for 10-20 minutes every 2-3 hours [3]
- Should not be used for >15-20 mins to prevent frostbite or nerve damage [4]
Heat Therapy
- Increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, increases tissue flexibility [5,6]
- Best for subacute/chronic pain and stiffness when inflammation has reduced [7]
- Apply heating pads, hot packs, warm baths of 104-113°F for 10-20 minutes 1-2x daily [8]
- Avoid direct heat on open wounds or numb/insensitive skin [9]
Recent evidence has challenged the notion that ice is universally better for new injuries, finding:
- Ice impaired muscle cell and tissue regeneration in animal studies [10,11]
- Cold water immersion slowed healing vs. active recovery in some human trials [12]
- Heat helped maintain range of motion and alignment better than ice [13]
However, data still supports using ice acutely for pain/swelling, then transitioning to heat as healing progresses. Combining modalities can optimize benefits while minimizing risks [14]. More research is warranted, but I often find Ice helps patients reduce acute musculoskeletal pain. Then, they can increase movement, which is where the real magic is.
In summary, ice and heat both offer complementary analgesic and recuperative effects when applied judiciously. Work closely with a rehabilitation professional to determine optimal therapeutic dosages for your situation.
References for Ice/Heat:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK530972/
[6] https://www.physio-pedia.com/Heat_and_Cold_Therapy
[14] https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/getting-started/heat-and-cold-therapy
Chiropractic -
As a seasoned Chiropractor, I have witnessed firsthand the efficacy of appropriately applied, skillful, spinal manipulation for reducing back pain, neck pain, headaches, and a host of other ailments. Hmm.. the same things that opioids are super commonly prescribed for. And the scientific literature supports my clinical experience.
Multiple studies demonstrate spinal manipulation provides moderate improvements in pain and function compared to placebo or standard care [1,2]. The techniques work by realigning joints, relaxing muscles, and stimulating mechanoreceptors [3].
Another study found that using SMT as a first treatment option for chronic lower back pain leads to better outcomes and a lower need for further interventions (like opioids or other painkillers).[8]
The frequency and duration of care depends on the condition. For chronic lower back pain, a review found 10 weekly sessions reduced intensity by 30% [4]. Chronic neck pain improved after 12 weeks of therapy [5]. I typically recommend 1-2 visits weekly for 4-12 weeks.
Complications are absurdly rare. Far lower than with medications. And patient satisfaction is very high when expectations are properly set [7].
I still do get an occasional "my medical doctor doesn't believe in chiropractors", and due to a long history of dirty tricks and medical conditioning, I understand there is some persistent bias and concerns (I'm planning on writing an entire article about this soon). But, instead of long-winded defensive responses, these days I just refer to our clinic's 250+ 5-star Google reviews and simply say.. "They do".
Given my experience, the impressive body of evidence, and an excellent safety record, chiropractic/spinal manipulation merits consideration alongside other non-pharmacologic options for managing chronic back and neck pain. I've seen it greatly improve mobility and quality of life when applied properly. Another tool in the pain relief toolbox!
References for Chiropractic/Spinal Manipulation:
[1] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2616395
[2] https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD008112.pub2/full
[3] https://www.acatoday.org/Portals/60/Docs/Home/ForPatients/SpinalManipulation-SafetyContextReview.pdf
Massage, Percussion Guns, and Myofascial Release
Massage therapy and self-myofascial release techniques like foam rolling offer natural, drug-free pain relief by directly working those muscles and connective tissues.
Studies show regular professional massage significantly reduces chronic back pain and arthritis knee pain [1, 2]. The benefits come from increasing circulation, relaxing muscles, and reducing inflammatory chemicals [3].
But with self-massage using foam rollers or massage balls, folks can achieve similar relief themselves at home. Research finds self-myofascial release 3-5 times weekly can cut muscle soreness 30% and shoulder pain 70% [4, 5].
Percussion massage guns are another DIY pain-relief option catching on. Their rapid-fire pulsations reduce soreness before/after exercise, improve mobility, and relieve chronic back pain. Experts recommend 1-2 minutes per muscle at 2000-3200 pummels per minute, up to 15 minutes total [9, 10].
For chronic aches, key spots to target are lower back, neck, hip flexors, calves, and upper back. Just 30-90 seconds of moderate pressure on trigger points or gently rolling tight muscles in those areas can provide major tension relief [11-15].
In summary, studies support massage or self-massage several times weekly, foam rolling 2-3 minutes per muscle group, and percussive pulsing for 1-15 minutes total as safe, non-drug ways to beat various musculoskeletal pains.
References for Massage/Myofascial Release:
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29079809/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25768071/
Competently Coached Corrective Exercise
Corrective exercise uses targeted strengthening and mobility work to address musculoskeletal imbalances, postural dysfunction, and improper movement patterns. Mechanical loading progressively applies controlled stress to tissues.
Benefits stem from:
- Improving mobility and stability of joints [1]
- Restoring optimal alignment and mechanics [2]
- Promoting adaptation and thickening of load-bearing tissues [3]
Studies show these techniques effectively reduce chronic pain:
- Corrective exercise decreased back pain intensity by 39% over 8 weeks [4]
- Mechanical loading reduced patellofemoral pain by 29% over 12 weeks [5]
Experts recommend 30-60 minute sessions 2-3 times per week over 6-12 weeks focused on joint-specific mobility drills, targeted strengthening, and gradual progressive loading [6,7].
A qualified professional should guide proper execution to maximize benefits and minimize injury risk. Some post-session soreness is expected.
In summary, research supports corrective and mechanical loading protocols under supervision 2-3x/week to improve function, stimulate tissues, and safely reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain.
References for Corrective Exercise:
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6463915/
[6] https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/professional/expert-articles/5008/corrective-exercise-concepts-and-strategies/
Supplements and Certain Foods
Good ol' nature's pharmacy. Several herbs, spices, and natural remedies can safely soothe aches and discomfort.
There are many natural supplements that have been shown to help relieve pain when taken appropriately. Here is an overview of some of the most researched natural pain relievers:
Turmeric/Curcumin - Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Doses of 500-1000mg turmeric powder or 50-100mg curcumin extract three times daily have been shown effective for reducing arthritis pain and joint inflammation [1,2]. I've personally read research showing that curcumin doses of 4,000 to 8,000 mg per day or even as high as 12,000 mg per day are safe. Data from a 2017 study showed that out of 206 adults in the U.S. with self-reported rheumatoid arthritis, 63 percent used non-vitamin supplements to manage their symptoms. Turmeric was the most popular product.
Ginger - Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have used doses of 2000mg of ginger powder daily and found reductions in muscle pain, joint pain, and migraines [3,4].
Devil's Claw - Used traditionally in Africa for pain, devil's claw at doses of 50-100mg harpagoside daily was found to significantly reduce lower back pain compared to placebo [5].
White Willow Bark - White willow bark contains salicin which acts similarly to aspirin. Doses of 240mg salicin from willow bark daily reduced chronic low back pain by 40% in one study [6].
Cayenne/Capsaicin - Capsaicin creams derived from chili peppers can reduce nerve and joint pain when applied topically. Concentrations of 0.025% - 0.1% capsaicin are typical [7].
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Omega-3s from fish oil, at doses of 1200-2400mg EPA/DHA daily, reduced joint tenderness and morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis patients [8].
Magnesium - Magnesium deficiency is linked to chronic pain. Doses of 300-500mg of elemental magnesium per day reduced migraines and arthritis pain in studies [9].
Most of these supplements appear to be safe when taken as directed, but potential side effects include digestive upset and interactions with medications. It's best to consult a doctor before using natural supplements for pain relief.
References For Supplements:
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5003001/
General Movement & Exercise:
Regular exercise has been shown in numerous studies to help reduce many types of chronic pain, including back pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.
Exercise helps by and exercising increasing circulation, fluid production, reducing inflammation, stimulating the production of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals, strengthening muscles and bones, and improving flexibility[1].
For pain relief, experts recommend getting 150-300 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. This can be broken into sessions of 30-60 minutes done 3-5 days per week [2].
One study found 120 minutes per week of cardiovascular exercise decreased fibromyalgia pain by 30% over 12 weeks [4]. Another had osteoarthritis patients walk 40 minutes 3x/week resulting in a 36% reduction in knee pain [5].
Starting slowly and gradually increasing duration and intensity is best to prevent pain flares or injury. Low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or biking are easiest for beginners. Avoid high-intensity and high-impact exercise if dealing with joint pain.
In summary, research supports getting 150-300 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise, plus strength training 2-3 days per week, to safely and effectively reduce various types of chronic pain. Consult a doctor before starting a new exercise program.
References for Exercise:
[3] https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/getting-started/strength-training
Strength Training
Multiple studies have shown strength training to be an effective way to reduce various types of chronic pain, including back pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Strength training works by building up muscles around joints, strengthening bones, and improving overall fitness. This leads to reduced inflammation and increased stability, flexibility, and range of motion [1].
Research recommends strength training 2-3 times per week for optimal pain relief. Sessions should target major muscle groups and include 8-12 repetitions of low to moderate-intensity exercises like squats, lunges, rows, and presses [2].
One study found leg strength training just twice weekly led to a 36% reduction in arthritis knee pain over 12 weeks [3]. Another had fibromyalgia patients do full-body strength training 2x/week which reduced overall pain scores by 33% [4].
Isometric exercises like planks and wall sits are especially beneficial for joint pain. A program of 3 sets of 45-60 second isometric holds, 4x/week, significantly reduced chronic back and neck pain compared to standard care [5].
Starting with lighter weights and higher reps can help minimize soreness when beginning. Pain during strength training is an indicator to reduce weight or range of motion. Proper supervision and form is key to prevent injury.
In summary, research supports strength training 2-4 times per week, with moderate weight and 8-15 reps per set, to safely and effectively reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain. Consult a physical therapist or trainer to design a program suited to your abilities and needs.
References for Strength Training:
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17326698/
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Train Your Brain to Beat Pain
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, helps people modify unhelpful thought and behavior patterns that are making their pain worse. Studies show it can effectively reduce chronic pain.
In a review of over 20 trials, CBT lowered pain severity about 30% compared to controls [1]. Benefits lasted up to a year for some [2].
CBT teaches patients to identify and challenge negative thoughts, relax tense muscles, pace activities, and use other skills to cope with pain [3]. It usually involves weekly sessions for 6-12 weeks, either one-on-one or in a group [4].
One study found 8 weeks of CBT decreased fibromyalgia patients' pain and anxiety more than education alone [5]. Chronic back pain patients who did 10 CBT sessions reduced disability by 36% [6].
CBT empowers you to take an active role in managing your pain. It can improve physical function and ability to participate in life. CBT is very safe and can enhance other treatments.
In summary, studies support 6-12 weeks of weekly CBT to provide lasting pain relief by changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors around pain.
References for CBT:
[3] https://www.verywellhealth.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-for-chronic-pain-3144412
[4] https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/cognitive-behavioral-therapy
Collagen
Collagen is the main structural protein in connective tissues like cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It provides strength and flexibility to joints. Collagen naturally declines with age leading to joint deterioration.
Supplementing with collagen has been shown to improve joint pain and arthritis symptoms by enhancing collagen density. Hydrolyzed collagen at 10-12g daily increased collagen in joints and reduced arthritis pain versus placebo in clinical studies [1,2].
Collagen is high in the amino acid glycine, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Multiple studies have found glycine effectively reduces arthritis pain and stiffness at doses of 5g twice daily [3].
Glycine also improved symptoms of fibromyalgia when supplemented at doses of 15g daily. It helps calm excitatory neurons involved in pain pathways [4].
Collagen peptides and glycine supplements support joint health by boosting collagen, decreasing inflammation, and inhibiting pain signals. They can provide similar benefits as NSAIDs without the digestive and cardiovascular side effects.
In summary, clinical evidence supports taking 10-15g hydrolyzed collagen and/or 5-15g glycine daily to safely and effectively reduce chronic joint pain and improve mobility.
Here are 5 recipes where unflavored collagen peptides could be easily incorporated to provide joint pain relief and support:
Berry Banana Smoothie
1 cup almond milk
1 banana
1 cup mixed berries
2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Tropical Fruit Smoothie Bowl
1 banana
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup coconut milk
2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Toppings like granola, chia seeds
Collagen Coffee
1 cup coffee
2 tbsp coconut creamer
2 stevia packets
1 tsp raw honey
1-2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Tomato Basil Soup
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh basil
2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Chicken Noodle Soup
6 cups chicken broth
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
8 oz egg noodles
2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Blueberry Oatmeal
1/2 cup oats
1/2 cup almond milk
1/2 cup blueberries
1 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Strawberry Banana Yogurt Bowl
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 banana, sliced
1 cup strawberries
2 tbsp unflavored collagen peptides
Granola for topping
The unflavored collagen blends smoothly into liquids and sauces, adding a boost of joint-supporting nutrition. Add it to smoothies, oatmeal, soups, yogurt bowls, protein shakes, and more.
References for Collagen:
Here are some additional creative natural pain relief strategies that research supports:
Acupuncture - Insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body can reduce chronic back pain, osteoarthritis pain, and headache frequency and severity [1,2]. Typical treatments are 30-60 minutes weekly.
Mindfulness Meditation - Practicing mindfulness meditation for even 10-15 minutes daily reduced chronic neck, back, and joint pain in multiple studies [3]. It helps patients cope with pain.
Aromatherapy - Topical creams and essential oils like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger help relieve muscle and joint pain when massaged on the skin [5].
TENS Therapy - Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices stimulate nerves and block pain signals. Using as needed lowered back pain, diabetic neuropathy pain, and fibromyalgia [6].
Dr. Matt's Favorite Device: The Marc Pro - https://amzn.to/3EcSprx
Cold Laser Therapy - Non-invasive laser stimulation helps moderate arthritis, neck, back, and neuropathic pain when applied to affected areas for 30-90 seconds [7].
Compression Gear/Bands - Tight-fitting sleeves, braces, or taping compress affected joints, which improved osteoarthritis knee pain in studies [8].
Compression Bands/Voodoo Bands - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dXfc18me0s&t=278s
At minute 1:33 mark Dr. Matt demonstrates how to use them on a shoulder.
References for additional therapies:
[2] https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD007587.pub2/full
Conclusion - A Brighter Tomorrow
It's clear that we cannot simply stand by and allow this devastating opioid crisis to continue. The stories documented in PainKiller are a powerful reminder of the lives lost and families torn apart by addiction.
First and foremost, we must hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for their role in fueling this crisis. The Sacklers and Purdue Pharma are just one example of the greed and deception that has plagued the industry. We must demand transparency and accountability from all drug manufacturers, and ensure that they are not allowed to prioritize profits over the well-being of their customers.
We must prioritize access to addiction treatment and support services. Too often, those struggling with addiction are denied the help they need due to barriers such as cost, stigma, or limited resources. We must remove these barriers and make sure that anyone who wants help can receive it, regardless of their background or circumstances.
But the responsibility doesn't solely lie with the pharmaceutical companies or the healthcare system. As individuals, we all have a role to play in addressing this crisis. It starts with educating ourselves and others about the risks of opioids, better alternatives to pain management, and even how to proactively build health and resilience to minimize the pain we will inevitably endure.
Let's turn the pain of this crisis into a catalyst for change. Let's inspire empathy, drive, and action in everyone who watches PainKiller and hears the stories of those impacted by this crisis. We owe it to the lives lost and the families forever changed to take a stand and fight for a better tomorrow. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where no one has to suffer the devastating consequences of chronic pain and opioid addiction.
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