A Patient Guide to Pain Care and Opioid Medication

If you take opioid medicine for pain and are considering chiropractic care, start with a coordinated conversation about your diagnosis and goals. Non-drug approaches may help some pain conditions, but no chiropractic treatment can promise that you will no longer need medication.

Questions to ask before beginning care

• What is the likely cause of my pain, and does it need further medical evaluation?
• What benefit is reasonable to expect from the proposed treatment?
• What are its risks, alternatives and likely costs?
• How will progress be measured, and when should the plan be reassessed?
• How will my chiropractor and prescribing clinician coordinate care?

What does the evidence say?

Spinal manipulation may offer small improvements in pain and function for some adults with low-back pain. It is one possible component of care, not a universal treatment for all pain or proof that medication will become unnecessary. Exercise, physical therapy, psychological approaches and appropriate nonopioid medicines may also be considered. See NCCIH’s spinal manipulation information and CDC’s nonopioid treatment overview.

Who decides whether opioid medication changes?

Medication decisions belong in a discussion with the prescribing clinician. Do not skip doses, taper or stop an opioid because you have begun chiropractic treatment. CDC advises against abrupt discontinuation or rapid dose reduction except in circumstances requiring immediate clinical action. When a taper is appropriate, it should be individualized and supported. Read CDC’s guidance for ongoing opioid therapy.

Is chiropractic care a treatment for opioid addiction?

It is not a replacement for evidence-based opioid use disorder treatment. A person can need pain care and addiction treatment at the same time. Medical assessment can help identify the right care, including medications for opioid use disorder when appropriate. Learn more from CDC’s treatment and recovery information.

What should I disclose at an appointment?

Bring your medication list and relevant health history. Describe new or worsening symptoms and previous treatment responses. Ask about risks: temporary discomfort can follow manipulation, and serious adverse events have been reported. Your health conditions and the technique under consideration affect whether manual treatment is suitable.

For chiropractic appointment questions at Beyond Wellness, call 704-461-1836 or email admin@beyondwellnesscc.com. View appointment options. For medication management or possible opioid use disorder, contact a qualified medical clinician.