Complementary practices such as meditation and mindful breathing helped patients manage chronic pain and in some cases reduced the need for medication such as opioids, according to new a study.

Opioid misuse and addiction are major public health issues in the United States, and approximately 70 percent of individuals who use opioids on a long-term basis have a musculoskeletal disorder, such as low back pain or arthritis.

The study involved a Pain and Stress Management program for a low-income, diverse community living with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Reaching 122 participants, the program included a monthly workshop led by a meditation instructor and a social worker, as well as a weekly meditation conference call. Participants engaged in mindful breathing techniques and meditation to manage chronic pain and stress.

To evaluate the program, researchers surveyed participants after each monthly meeting. Data was collected to assess program effectiveness, participants’ knowledge of complementary practices, how often they used the techniques, and how the practices helped them cope with pain and stress. More than half of the participants indicated that mindful breathing helped them manage their chronic pain and stress.

While mindful breathing techniques and meditation may help manage low back pain, and reduce the need for medication such as opioids, another approach with an outstanding record of success in these areas is chiropractic care. Doctors of Chiropractic (chiropractors) are professionals trained in techniques to reduce back pain without surgery or medications.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com.