Overcoming opioid addiction is a complex journey that involves various forms of support to help individuals tackle the challenges they encounter. These challenges often encompass mental, emotional, and physical issues stemming from the addiction. While addiction therapy is commonly perceived as a mental process aimed at promoting abstinence from drugs, physical therapy plays a crucial role, particularly in the realm of opioid addiction, in providing assistance to individuals. Let’s delve into the ways in which physical therapy can aid those striving to overcome opioid addictions.
Addressing Physical Health
When an individual falls into the grips of opioid addiction, their body’s internal systems undergo significant strain, potentially resulting in chronic health complications. Opioid addiction frequently leads to muscle weakness, joint discomfort, and cardiovascular challenges if left unchecked over prolonged periods. Physical therapy offers a means for individuals to confront these health issues and restore their overall well-being. Tailored exercises are employed to help individuals rebuild their strength, enhance muscle mass, and boost cardiovascular fitness. By actively participating in the prescribed exercises within physical therapy, individuals can effectively address underlying pain often masked by opioid abuse, such as back or shoulder ailments, without relying on medication for pain management. Physical therapy targets the root cause of the problem, reducing the dependency on drugs and empowering individuals to address the issue naturally.
Managing Addiction Symptoms
During the detoxification phase of opioid addiction recovery, individuals may experience a deficiency in certain chemicals responsible for mood elevation and a sense of pleasure. Physical therapy interventions aid in managing these symptoms by encouraging individuals to engage in physical activities. Physical exertion triggers the release of natural endorphins in the body, fostering a sense of well-being. For instance, runners often experience an endorphin surge after a lengthy run, known as a “runner’s high.” This phenomenon occurs as the brain releases endorphins, eliciting feelings of happiness or accomplishment. Similarly, in the context of addiction recovery, physical therapy operates in a similar fashion. By promoting movement and actively pursuing health objectives, individuals experience the release of endorphins, not only aiding in muscle and body mass recovery but also enhancing mental and emotional well-being as they derive a sense of achievement through treatment. This approach presents individuals with new health targets to regain well-being without relying on drugs.
Assisting in Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
The withdrawal phase of addiction recovery poses significant challenges for individuals combating opioid addiction. Withdrawal symptoms commonly include nausea, body pains, anxiety, and insomnia. Incorporating physical therapy during this phase helps individuals effectively manage and overcome these symptoms. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which alleviate withdrawal discomfort and uplift the individual’s mood. Supplementary approaches such as deep breathing exercises, massage therapy, and relaxation techniques, when combined with physical therapy, aid in reducing the individual’s anxiety levels. By equipping individuals in recovery with the tools to navigate their withdrawal symptoms, physical therapy offers a pathway to recovery without resorting to drugs as a coping mechanism.
Benefits of Physical Therapy in Opioid Addiction Recovery
Physical therapy provides multiple benefits to individuals on the path to recovery from opioid abuse. Identifying the underlying causes of the addiction and addressing these issues are crucial elements in the recovery process. Physical therapy has proven to be an effective method in guiding individuals towards healing and long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They are looking to spend less.
- Natural products make them feel safer.
- They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They want to be responsible for their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They want more freedom when it comes to choosing their doctors or their healthcare plans.
- They want their children to receive a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective drugs.
What are the Five Alternative Medical Systems (Alternatives)?
The five alternative medicine systems include acupuncture, Ayurveda, homeopathy, energy healing, and aromatherapy.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. Homeopaths treat patients by prescribing small amounts of substances that produce similar symptoms to the ones experienced when the patient is sick.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based upon the belief that all of us are connected to a universal force of life called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch or intention to restore harmony between our spiritual, emotional, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants for therapeutic reasons. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy.
Is holistic medication legal?
Both yes and no. Yes, because many medicines have been proven effective against various ailments. They don’t cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual’s health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.
Some people claim that holistic medicine has been around since ancient times. However, this is simply false. Even though some healers from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and other countries used natural remedies, this was without any scientific knowledge.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. Most Western countries have developed public hospitals, where doctors can provide medical care, by the end of the 19th-century.
Conventional medicine is still the most popular form of healthcare today. Many people still prefer to utilize complementary and alternate medicine. Many people find that it works better than drugs.
For instance, massage therapy can make people feel more at ease than tranquilizers. Some prefer to eat healthy food over taking prescription medication. Some people find that exercising regularly is beneficial for their bodies.
What’s the difference between holistic medicine, traditional medicine, and holistic?
Traditional medicine concentrates on the treatment of symptoms, while holistic medicine addresses the entire person. Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just one aspect of a patient’s health.
Traditional medicine treats specific organs and systems, such as the brain. Holistic medicine examines the whole body from the inside. It also looks at how lifestyle choices affect overall wellness.
Is holistic medicine safe to use?
Holistic Medicine isn’t as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. Side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness. drowsiness. diarrhea. constipation. These side effects can be difficult to understand and must be weighed against the benefits offered by alternative treatments such acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
As always, talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment plan.
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to medical practices that are used by patients who do not feel they are receiving adequate care from allopathic medicine. These include homeopathy, herbal medicine, massage therapy and homeopathy. Traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, spiritual healing, chiropractic care, homeopathy, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic care and other therapies. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren’t part of conventional medicine’s standard system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies include elements of conventional medicine. One example is acupuncture that uses needles. Others use heat or acupressure.
Some CAM therapies may be helpful for anxiety, pain relief, stress management or relaxation. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies might be more enjoyable.
There is no single definition of what constitutes CAM; however, most definitions include at least one of the following:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Combination between Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Methods that treat mind, body, spirit in a holistic way
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- The healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. If used incorrectly, some therapies can cause severe harm or even death. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
webmd.com
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
cam.cancer.gov
How To
How to pursue a career in Holistic Medicine
The field is experiencing unprecedented growth in holistic medicine. There are many ways you can pursue this career path. If you are serious about this career, it is best to return to school.
There are many schools that offer courses in holistic medicine. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. You can also find programs specifically tailored for medical professionals looking to enter the field.
Online universities offer holistic health classes. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition is one such program. Students can access a variety of holistic health education tools, and resources from this institution.
Another option is to apply for a traditional 4-year college. Many colleges offer holistic health courses. A Bachelor’s Degree is offered by the University of California in Holistic Health Sciences.
A nutrition course is recommended if you intend to pursue a career involving holistic medicine. NCCM recommends that all students take nutrition courses before embarking on professional training. According to them, integrative medicine practitioners need to have a solid understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not just symptoms. This requires more knowledge and skills than conventional medicine. Holistic medicine also requires understanding of how to evaluate different types and illnesses from a nutritional standpoint.
The NCCM reports that nutritionists often consult with doctors to provide nutritional advice to their patients. Some go so far to recommend specific diets and supplements based upon their assessment of the patient.
The fundamental principles of nutrition are essential for holistic practitioners. This includes understanding the nutritional content of foods. It is also about identifying nutrient deficiencies as well as other problems that may cause them.
It is important for holistic practitioners to realize that not all specialize in nutrition. Some are primarily focused on herbal treatments while others rely solely upon acupuncture. Some people combine these two approaches into a single treatment.
Holistic practitioners, however, recommend eating a diet rich with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They discourage the consumption of processed food products and fast-food restaurants. Instead, they urge people to eat organic whenever possible.
One thing holistic practitioners agree on is that a healthy diet will prevent disease. However, they do have differences on some points. For instance, they don’t believe that gluten causes celiac disease. Instead, they believe that a shortage of nutrients is the cause.
However, they do acknowledge that some foods can cause allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis can be caused by peanuts and shellfish, for example. They also caution against excessive caffeine consumption.
Many holistic practitioners will use herbs to treat different illnesses. However, they do not recommend using drugs. These practitioners feel that these drugs mask the problem and do not solve it. Because of this, they prefer to use natural remedies whenever possible.
Holistic practitioners are not only able to offer alternative therapies but also employ many complementary methods. These include:
- Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves strategically placing needles in the skin. This stimulates the body’s healing process.
- Herbal therapy: Holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various conditions in addition to acupuncture. Ginseng is one common herb that can be used to treat this condition.
- Homeopathy – A form of traditional Chinese medicine, also known as homeopathy, is based around the principle that like cures. You might experience a similar symptom when you are suffering from the same condition as someone else. If this happens, it is important to seek out a remedy that contains the exact same ingredients as the original substance.
- Massage Therapy – Many holistic professionals offer massage therapy to help you relax and reduce stress. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
When choosing a practitioner, you should ensure that he or she meets your needs. A nutritionist who has a degree will be able to provide nutritional counseling. Likewise, if you want to learn more about acupuncture, find a practitioner certified by the American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM).
Ask your doctor if you have questions about holistic health care before making any decision. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for certain services.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Utilizing Physical Therapy to Aid in Overcoming Opioid Addiction
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/uncategorized/using-physical-therapy-to-help-overcome-addiction/
Published Date: Tue, 28 May 2024 21:02:43 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They are looking to spend less.
- Natural products make them feel safer.
- They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They want to be responsible for their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They want more freedom when it comes to choosing their doctors or their healthcare plans.
- They want their children to receive a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective drugs.
What are the Five Alternative Medical Systems (Alternatives)?
The five alternative medicine systems include acupuncture, Ayurveda, homeopathy, energy healing, and aromatherapy.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. Homeopaths treat patients by prescribing small amounts of substances that produce similar symptoms to the ones experienced when the patient is sick.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based upon the belief that all of us are connected to a universal force of life called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch or intention to restore harmony between our spiritual, emotional, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants for therapeutic reasons. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy.
Is holistic medication legal?
Both yes and no. Yes, because many medicines have been proven effective against various ailments. They don’t cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual’s health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.
Some people claim that holistic medicine has been around since ancient times. However, this is simply false. Even though some healers from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and other countries used natural remedies, this was without any scientific knowledge.
Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. Most Western countries have developed public hospitals, where doctors can provide medical care, by the end of the 19th-century.
Conventional medicine is still the most popular form of healthcare today. Many people still prefer to utilize complementary and alternate medicine. Many people find that it works better than drugs.
For instance, massage therapy can make people feel more at ease than tranquilizers. Some prefer to eat healthy food over taking prescription medication. Some people find that exercising regularly is beneficial for their bodies.
What’s the difference between holistic medicine, traditional medicine, and holistic?
Traditional medicine concentrates on the treatment of symptoms, while holistic medicine addresses the entire person. Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just one aspect of a patient’s health.
Traditional medicine treats specific organs and systems, such as the brain. Holistic medicine examines the whole body from the inside. It also looks at how lifestyle choices affect overall wellness.
Is holistic medicine safe to use?
Holistic Medicine isn’t as dangerous as it seems, but there are still risks when you use this treatment. Side effects include nausea, headaches, dizziness. drowsiness. diarrhea. constipation. These side effects can be difficult to understand and must be weighed against the benefits offered by alternative treatments such acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
As always, talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment plan.
What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to medical practices that are used by patients who do not feel they are receiving adequate care from allopathic medicine. These include homeopathy, herbal medicine, massage therapy and homeopathy. Traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, spiritual healing, chiropractic care, homeopathy, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic care and other therapies. Many CAM practitioners use treatment methods that aren’t part of conventional medicine’s standard system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies include elements of conventional medicine. One example is acupuncture that uses needles. Others use heat or acupressure.
Some CAM therapies may be helpful for anxiety, pain relief, stress management or relaxation. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM therapies might be more enjoyable.
There is no single definition of what constitutes CAM; however, most definitions include at least one of the following:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
- It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Combination between Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Methods that treat mind, body, spirit in a holistic way
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- The healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. If used incorrectly, some therapies can cause severe harm or even death. Some have side effects, which should be balanced against their perceived benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
webmd.com
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
cam.cancer.gov
How To
How to pursue a career in Holistic Medicine
The field is experiencing unprecedented growth in holistic medicine. There are many ways you can pursue this career path. If you are serious about this career, it is best to return to school.
There are many schools that offer courses in holistic medicine. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. You can also find programs specifically tailored for medical professionals looking to enter the field.
Online universities offer holistic health classes. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition is one such program. Students can access a variety of holistic health education tools, and resources from this institution.
Another option is to apply for a traditional 4-year college. Many colleges offer holistic health courses. A Bachelor’s Degree is offered by the University of California in Holistic Health Sciences.
A nutrition course is recommended if you intend to pursue a career involving holistic medicine. NCCM recommends that all students take nutrition courses before embarking on professional training. According to them, integrative medicine practitioners need to have a solid understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not just symptoms. This requires more knowledge and skills than conventional medicine. Holistic medicine also requires understanding of how to evaluate different types and illnesses from a nutritional standpoint.
The NCCM reports that nutritionists often consult with doctors to provide nutritional advice to their patients. Some go so far to recommend specific diets and supplements based upon their assessment of the patient.
The fundamental principles of nutrition are essential for holistic practitioners. This includes understanding the nutritional content of foods. It is also about identifying nutrient deficiencies as well as other problems that may cause them.
It is important for holistic practitioners to realize that not all specialize in nutrition. Some are primarily focused on herbal treatments while others rely solely upon acupuncture. Some people combine these two approaches into a single treatment.
Holistic practitioners, however, recommend eating a diet rich with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They discourage the consumption of processed food products and fast-food restaurants. Instead, they urge people to eat organic whenever possible.
One thing holistic practitioners agree on is that a healthy diet will prevent disease. However, they do have differences on some points. For instance, they don’t believe that gluten causes celiac disease. Instead, they believe that a shortage of nutrients is the cause.
However, they do acknowledge that some foods can cause allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis can be caused by peanuts and shellfish, for example. They also caution against excessive caffeine consumption.
Many holistic practitioners will use herbs to treat different illnesses. However, they do not recommend using drugs. These practitioners feel that these drugs mask the problem and do not solve it. Because of this, they prefer to use natural remedies whenever possible.
Holistic practitioners are not only able to offer alternative therapies but also employ many complementary methods. These include:
- Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves strategically placing needles in the skin. This stimulates the body’s healing process.
- Herbal therapy: Holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various conditions in addition to acupuncture. Ginseng is one common herb that can be used to treat this condition.
- Homeopathy – A form of traditional Chinese medicine, also known as homeopathy, is based around the principle that like cures. You might experience a similar symptom when you are suffering from the same condition as someone else. If this happens, it is important to seek out a remedy that contains the exact same ingredients as the original substance.
- Massage Therapy – Many holistic professionals offer massage therapy to help you relax and reduce stress. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
When choosing a practitioner, you should ensure that he or she meets your needs. A nutritionist who has a degree will be able to provide nutritional counseling. Likewise, if you want to learn more about acupuncture, find a practitioner certified by the American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM).
Ask your doctor if you have questions about holistic health care before making any decision. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for certain services.
