Alternate Therapies for Chronic Pain

More than 100 million people in the United States suffer from chronic pain everyday. Nerve damage, arthritis and diseases such as fibromyalgia just to name a few. According to the Centers for Disease Control over 100 people die every day from drug overdose in the United States and that number has tripled since the 1990’s.

The pain pill epidemic is on the rise and many people are now turning to alternative methods for relief. Hunter Holmes Mcguire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia serves veterans after they come home, offering different treatments to its patients other than the typical prescription. Some of their services include yoga, aqua therapy, acupuncture, and even hypnosis. This is the latest round of alternative treatments being offered by the VA, but now they won’t be fighting the battle alone. Last month the National Institute of Health announced will be pitching in a $21 million dollar initiative to study these alternative treatments.

This different approach towards pain isn’t new. Many of the holistic and complementary treatments offered today are traced back to ancient healing techniques that push for living healthier and stress free. But are they safe? The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine points out that you should always consult a doctor before trying any new approach to your health along with becoming an informed customer before using a new product or method. Supporters of alternative medicine are excited to see two of the biggest health organizations in the US coming together to invest new money in an old practice.