Anti-inflammatory drugs aka NSAIDs

Pain medication

In principle chiropractors are not against the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. But ... they have awesome side effects. Some of these anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen are available over-the-counter, others only on prescription (e.g. Celebrex).

NSAIDs are effective for pain relief and to reduce swelling (anti-inflammatory). Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs.

How do NSAIDs work?.

Medications that work to reduce inflammation come in two major categories:

� Steroids (e.g. Cortisone) are a derivative of a natural hormone produced by the body. They have serious side effects and should only be used when all else has been tried.

� Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs) work to block an enzyme called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) that is critical in your body's production of prostaglandins. It is these prostaglandins that cause swelling and pain.

Side effects

The problem is that these Prostaglandins have also have other important functions in the body, one of which is to produce the mucus that lines the stomach. Around 12 000 people die every year in the USA alone from bleeding ulcers caused by NSAIDs.

A new generation of NSAIDs such as Celebrex, called COX-2 inhibitors, are believed to have less of an effect on the stomach, however they have had some serious side effects on the heart, and thus are only available on prescription. The do not necessarily give better relief of the pain and stiffness than ordinary NSAIDs.

In general, taking either for of these drugs for any length of time may have very serious side effects. Before you start taking NSAID medications of either type you should talk to your doctor. Be sure to let your doctor know about other medical problems you have, especially hypertension, asthma, kidney, or stomach problems. In addition, let your doctor know other medications you may be taking, and if you have any known allergies to medications.

In chiropractic we rather look for the cause of your pain.

NSAIDs should NOT be used if

You are pregnant and are having lower back pain, or if you are experiencing leg or groin pain during your pregnancy.
You are breastfeeding
You have a history of stomach ulcers
You are taking blood thinning medication
You are also on anti-depressant medication.

Rather consider eating foodstuffs known for their anti-inflammatory properties. For more about the benefits of olive oil, click here. Think too of our delicious fish soup recipe, chock-a-block full of proven anti-inflammatory foods like celery, fish oil of course, and olive oil.

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