Can Chiropractors Write Prescription
Chiropractic care is a popular alternative treatment method. Most patients seek chiropractor specialists for various musculoskeletal conditions and pain relief often due to common causes like chronic pain, headaches, joint pain, and more.
However, there is often confusion about the methodology of chiropractors, particularly regarding their authority to write prescriptions for pain relief and how they treat pain relief throughout a treatment program.
We dive into the role chiropractors take when it comes to pain management and address the question: can chiropractor write prescriptions for pain relief?
What is Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through manual adjustments and manipulations of the spine and other joints. Chiropractors emphasize the body’s ability to heal itself and strive to restore proper alignment and function to the musculoskeletal system.
Many chiropractors will work alongside a physical therapist in order to provide well-rounded care to the body, focusing on rehabilitation exercises patients can often complete at home coupled with their spinal adjustments in office.
Chiropractors are primarily focused on spinal manipulation, but are also skilled in assessing and managing various neuromuscular and skeletal conditions. They may use imaging, physical exams, and more to asses and create a treatment plan.
Will My Chiropractor Write Me a Prescription for Muscle Relaxers or Other Pain Medication?
In general, no, chiropractors do not have prescription authority for pharmaceutical drugs in the same way that medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine do. This means they often cannot write prescriptions for pain medication or muscle relaxers.
Chiropractors typically rely on non-pharmacological approaches to pain management, such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, exercise prescriptions, and lifestyle modifications. In most cases, they will not prescribe medication for pain relief.
Alternate Pain Relief Treatments in Chiropractic Care
Instead of medications, chiropractors employ a variety of techniques to alleviate pain and improve function in their patients through physical adjustments and physical exercises. These may include spinal adjustments, mobilizations, therapeutic exercises, electrical stimulation, ultrasound therapy, and other manual therapies.
One of the strengths of chiropractic care is its focus on non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief. By addressing the underlying issues contributing to pain, chiropractors can help patients reduce their reliance on pain medications and avoid potential side effects like dependency or worsening side effect symptoms.
Chiropractic care is very beneficial to patients seeking to stop or greatly reduce their pain medication dependency by treating the cause of their pain and not the symptoms. This can lead to longer-lasting relief and better mobility overall.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Pain Management
Research has shown that chiropractic care can be effective in managing various types of pain, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pain. Many patients report significant improvements in pain levels, mobility, and overall quality of life following chiropractic treatment.
At Elite Chiropractic, our Maryland chiropractors boast “pain free living” because it is our focus and goal for every patient. Backed by research, the latest education, and highly trained PTs, we can make this happen for many patients without resorting to pain management medications.
In some cases, our chiropractors may integrate your treatment plan into a comprehensive pain management plan that includes other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, physical therapists, and pain specialists. Collaborative care can offer patients a holistic approach to pain relief that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of their condition. This can help further reduce the dependency on opioids and lead to longer-lasting results.
What to Consider When Deciding on Chiropractors in Maryland vs PCPs
When seeking pain relief, patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and medical history. Chiropractic care may be a suitable option for those seeking drug-free and non-invasive treatments for pain, but it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Chiropractic care is great if you have tried other methods of pain relief and found they did not help; you notice that other methods have not treated the cause of your pain; you want to reduce your use of pain management medications; you prefer physical exercises and personal adjustments to other forms of traditional healthcare.
Experts in the field of chiropractic medicine will emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to pain management that addresses the underlying causes of pain and promotes long-term healing. Chiropractors work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and goals.
Chiropractic Specialists: Empowering Patients to Make Informed Decisions About Pain Relief Options
While chiropractors typically do not have prescription authority for pain medications, they play a vital role in the multidisciplinary approach to pain management. Through non-pharmacological interventions, chiropractic care offers patients safe, effective, and holistic solutions for pain relief and improved quality of life.
Talk to the chiropractors at Elite Chiropractic in Maryland today to get a consult on what our chiropractic treatment plans can do for you and your pain relief. We will take into consideration your medical history, type of pain, activities, lifestyle, and more to create a customized treatment plan that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors generally do not have the authority to prescribe prescription medications, including opioids. They focus on non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief.
Chiropractic adjustments by trained professionals are safe for every body and age. Professional chiropractors take their time to assess, make a treatment plan, and carefully adjust the body to allow it to heal itself properly. Family chiropractic care in Maryland can be found at Elite Chiropractic.
The timeline for pain relief with chiropractic care varies depending on the individual and the nature of the condition being treated. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.
During a chiropractic treatment session, you can expect the chiropractor to perform a thorough evaluation, including a review of your medical history and a physical examination. Treatment may involve spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and other manual techniques.
More often than not, no, your chiropractor cannot prescribe you muscle relaxers or similar prescription pain relief medications.
There should be no pain following or during your chiropractic session. You may experience some discomfort or pressure but your chiropractor will discuss with you what to expect during the session to provide comfort at all times.
About the Author
Dr. Bross is the owner of Elite Chiropractic and Sport. He serves as a Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner (CCSP) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. His unique approach to individualized patient care is based on the evaluation and treatment of the “whole” person.
Dr. Bross is a leader in the promotion of health and wellness. He has accumulated an extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal and nutritional components of the human body. He is skilled in the Graston Technique, Active Release Technique, and Sports Medicine.
