 |
| Lorenzo Gritti for NPR |
The Veterans Administration (VA) study is a game changer by making providers more accountable for treating persons with acute and chronic pain. Yes, this is a hard sell to patients! But, I have been somewhat successful in reducing the amount and dosage of opioids used for persons with sickle cell anemia and other chronic pain disorders. Explaining that long-term use of opioids can sometimes make chronic pain worse is not easy. Opioid Induced Hyper-Analgesia means that pain receptors in the brain have a hyperexcited response to painful stimuli from the opioids. Working with a doctor with expertise in treating chronic pain and Opioid Misuse is important. Slowly weaning down the meds takes time and is best done when working with a team of providers such as a physical therapist, mental health providers and etc. Fear and anxiety of withdrawal are a normal response that can be overcome with support and working with your doctor to put together a treatment plan. Most patients who follow through actually report less mood swings, feel better and have improved overall health. Again,
it’s all about Harm Reduction.TOVA213 Greenhill Ave.www.tovacommunityhealth.org(302) 429-5870TOVA
213 Greenhill Ave.
Wilmington, DE 19805
302-429-5870 ext. 120
www.tovacommunityhealth.org
