Today's Health Topic The drug-free approach to pain management The opioid epidemic continues to rise in America, and a recent report suggests the crisis now affects more older adults. A main reason for the growing addiction to pain medicine is the ease with which it is often prescribed, according to Dr. Robert Jamison, a professor of anesthesia and psychiatry with Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital. "Primary care doctors often don't have much time to go over the various options available that may help relieve a person's specific pain, and it's easier and faster to write a prescription," he says. "Also, doctors don't always know enough about other therapies to feel confident enough to suggest them." Even if you are not dependent on opioids, long-term use may cause side effects like an upset stomach, nausea, constipation, and an increased risk of falls. Depending on your condition, the location of your pain, and its severity, there may be other pain management strategies available besides medication. Read more »

Pain Relief Featured content: • Pain and its perception • Pain and the mind-body connection • Pain relief techniques • 10 common types of pain and how to relieve them • Resources •  ... and more! Click here to read more »