In this episode, we welcome Cindy Perlin, a licensed clinical social worker and chronic pain survivor, to discuss the ongoing issue of prescription painkiller abuse and the dangers of relying on medication to treat pain. Research shows that physicians continue to prescribe large amounts of opioids for patients with minor pain issues, as well as other potentially harmful drugs like NSAIDs and gabapentinoids. Despite the risks, these medications are often preferred over safer, alternative treatments like medical marijuana, kratom, low-dose naltrexone, nutritional interventions, mind/body therapies, massage, acupuncture, and light therapy. Insurance companies also often do not cover these alternative options, leaving patients suffering unnecessarily and turning to dangerous street drugs. Cindy shares her personal experience with chronic pain and the importance of advocating for oneself to find the most effective and safe treatment options. This episode discusses the need for a shift in the way pain is treated and the availability of safe, effective alternatives.

Cindy Perlin is a licensed clinical social worker, chronic pain survivor, and author of The Truth About Chronic Pain Treatments: The Best and Worst Strategies for Becoming Pain Free. She is founder and CEO, Alternative Pain Treatment Directory.

She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, "It's time for a reckoning in pain medicine."

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Pain management beyond prescription pills

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