Opioid Crisis: FYZICAL Therapists Now Have Treatment Alternatives

Minneapolis, MN, October 29, 2017 --(PR.com)-- The Associative Awareness Technique (AAT) has been evidenced as - not only effective in reducing pain, but often alleviating pain altogether - and patients need prescriptions for AAT trained FYZICAL® therapists, instead of pharmaceuticals. Chemically inhibiting nociceptive fibers (pain receptors) and altering pain matrix functions in the brain are not the only ways to address chronic pain.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opioid abuse carries an annual economic burden of $78.5 Billion. In addition, Johns Hopkins health economists estimate the cost of chronic pain to the economy is now over $600 billion a year, and climbing - the cost to patients and their families, struggling to deal with chronic pain, immeasurable. Healthcare providers must commit to a strong emphasis on preventative medicine and improving patient outcomes, before leaning on pharmaceuticals.

What is known about the crisis - and one part of the solution - the restriction of opioids

Restricting opioids is only part of the solution and will likely lead to unintentional and dangerous consequences. Prescribing doctors will have to align with the 20% reduction of opioid prescriptions. Patients will be left to tough it out; often turning to illegal and dangerous alternatives.

Some healthcare providers are finding solutions

Opioids may be necessary, or at least compassionate, in the treatment of some intractable pain conditions. Jan Hanson, an AAT trained therapist and FYZICAL® Therapy Center owner asserted, “The concern is long term use can lead to addiction - and addiction can destroy lives. The Associative Awareness Technique, is not only effective in reducing pain, but often alleviating pain altogether. We must recognize the importance of targeting the root of the problem rather than only treating the symptoms.”

Jan Hanson is not the only one recommending alternatives opioids. The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued new guidelines for the treatment of low back pain that recommends using non-pharmacological therapies, before prescribing any medication. ACP made this recommendation after a review of research confirmed therapies such as massage, acupuncture, biofeedback, and spinal manipulation have greater effectiveness and lower risks than any pharmaceutical treatment plans.

As the country grapples with how to deal with this problem, it is important to educate political influencers, the medical community, as well as the public, of the recent advances in conservative pain treatment - effective treatment strategies that decrease the dependence on drugs. They are available in most communities. FYZICAL® therapists can help people live better and love their lives again, without relying on dangerous pharmaceuticals.

About Jan Hanson, MS, PT

Jan Hanson owns and operates FYZICAL® Therapy and Balance Center of Woodbury, Minnesota. She is passionate about healing patients from a holistic approach, bringing together the best of Western and Eastern philosophies and techniques. She is part of a movement across the nation to lead the charge in transforming healthcare from one of “sick care” to “well care”, by providing services focused on quality outcomes, total well-being, and prevention. Her mission is to provide the best possible outcome for each of her patients.

Whatever the ailment, FYZICAL®, therapists just like Jan can help decrease pain, restore mobility and ensure independence - without surgery or prescription medications!