The Madison Chiropractor to see - Chiropractor Madison

NSAIDs – Friend or Foe?

Vioxx. Celebrex. Bextra. These are the prescription strength NSAIDs, or Non-Steroidal, Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, that were removed from the market recently because their use led to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Now we are warned that users of over-the-counter NSAIDs (i.e., Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Ibuprofen and aspirin) to pay close attention to the instructions on the label, as these too may pose an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Additionally, studies conducted in Britain concluded the use of NSAIDs led to a greater risk for gastroduodenal conditions (i.e., stomach bleeding, lesions, ulcers). One such study found that one in 1200 patients taking NSAIDs for at least two months died from gastroduodenal complications. The researchers pointed out that age and overall health may affect their outcomes, however, their results strongly suggest that chronic use of NSAIDs can result in severe complications. They advocate usage of only the minimum dosage for the shortest amount of time.

NSAID Pills

And as if these effects weren’t enough, long-term use of NSAIDs can cause damage to the eyes, including dry eyes, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and retinol hemorrhage.

Besides regular chiropractic care, what are some alternatives you can use to relieve inflammation and pain?

  • Fish oils, that contain omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to be effective in reducing neck and low back pain.

  • Eliminating sugar and grains from your diet helps lessen arthritis pain.

  • Increasing the amount of vitamin D your body receives, through sun exposure or cod liver oil, helps control rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Certain herbs, such as willow bark, are effective and natural alternatives to reduce inflammation and pain.

The bottom line? Both prescription and over-the-counter NSAIDs have come under close examination by the FDA in recent years. In light of the research, chiropractic care is certainly a safer alternative for instances in which people normally take NSAIDs.

If you know someone who reaches for the medicine cabinet to relieve pain, encourage them to call us for a no-obligation consultation.

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Dr. John Asks some important questions of interest to Madison residents - Chiropractor Madison Dr. John Asks...

Can someone who has had back surgery receive chiropractic care?
Yes. Rest assured that we will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. However, what we find is that surgical interventions will often produce spinal instability above or below the involved level. This is will be the focus of your chiropractic care.
How do you "catch" a cold?
Simply lower your resistance by avoiding the proper rest and exercise, eating lots of sugar and junk food, putting up with emotional stress and neglecting your nervous system by avoiding your chiropractor. You won't have to catch a cold because it will catch you!