HELPING A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC PAIN & OPIOID DEPENDENCE

Chronic pain and opiate addiction are serious issues that can have a significant impact on a person’s life and those around them. If you have a friend or family member who is struggling with chronic pain and opiate addiction, Hands for Life hopes that these tips can help you and your loved navigate their condition. Here are some ways in which you can help them navigate this challenging situation: 1. Educate yourself: Before offering support to your friend or family member, it is important to educate yourself about chronic pain and opiate addiction. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments can help you have meaningful conversations with your loved one and provide them with the support they need. 2. Show empathy and compassion: Living with chronic pain and addiction can be incredibly isolating and overwhelming. By showing empathy and compassion towards your friend or family member, you can create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to open up about their struggles. Let them know that you are there to listen and support them no matter what. 3. Encourage them to seek professional help: Chronic pain and opiate addiction are complex issues that often require professional treatment. Encourage your loved one to seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist who can provide them with the appropriate care and support. Offer to accompany them to appointments or help them research treatment options if needed. 4. Help them establish healthy coping mechanisms: Dealing with chronic pain and addiction can be emotionally and physically draining. Encourage your friend or family member to explore healthy coping mechanisms such as meditation, exercise,...

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS & CHIROPRACTIC

Autoimmune disorders are a group of diseases in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. These disorders can affect various organs and tissues, causing a wide range of symptoms and complications. While there is no cure for autoimmune disorders, treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. One alternative treatment option that has gained popularity in recent years is chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to health and wellness that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. While chiropractic care is commonly associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, it has also been shown to be effective in managing symptoms of autoimmune disorders. Research has shown that chiropractic care can help to reduce inflammation, improve immune function, and decrease pain in patients with autoimmune disorders. Chiropractors can work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that may include spinal adjustments, exercise therapy, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications. Chiropractic care can help to restore balance to the body and support the immune system in its fight against autoimmune diseases. One of the key benefits of chiropractic care for autoimmune disorders is its focus on the whole person. Chiropractors take a holistic approach to treatment, considering not only the physical symptoms of the disease but also the emotional and mental well-being of the patient. This comprehensive approach can help patients to better cope with the challenges of living with an autoimmune disorder and improve their overall quality of life. Here at Hands for Life that means working with you...

GASTROINTESTINAL ISSUES & HANDS FOR LIFE

Gastrointestinal problems are a common issue that many people face on a daily basis. From acid reflux to irritable bowel syndrome, these issues can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. While there are various treatment options available, some individuals may not have access to the care they need due to financial constraints. Non-profit chiropractic care is an option offered at Hands for Life Omega that can help individuals with gastrointestinal issues who may not have the means to access traditional medical care. Chiropractors are trained to treat a range of ailments, including gastrointestinal problems, through manipulation techniques that can help to alleviate pain and discomfort. In addition to manual manipulation techniques, Hands for Life offers additional services such as nutritional counseling and lifestyle recommendations to help individuals manage their gastrointestinal problems more effectively. By taking a comprehensive approach to care, the chiropractors here at Hands for Life can help individuals make positive changes to their diet and lifestyle that can improve their overall health and well-being. Overall, non-profit chiropractic care can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with gastrointestinal problems who may not have the financial means to access traditional medical care. That is exactly what we offer here at Hands for Life Omega. By providing affordable, holistic treatment options, chiropractors can help individuals find relief from their symptoms and improve their quality of...

THE OPIATE EPIDEMIC: DELAWARE

Hands for Life was established after Dr. Travis McKay lost a close friend to opiate abuse and addiction. Often, our blog reiterates the danger of opioid misuse and abuse, as well as our preventative mission to help those suffering with pain and/or opioid dependence. The opiate epidemic here in Delaware has become a significant public health crisis, affecting individuals and communities across the state, with an alarming increase in addiction, overdose deaths, and other related health issues in Delaware in recent years. According to the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, the state has seen a sharp rise in opiate-related deaths in recent years. In 2019, there were 430 opiate-related overdose deaths in the state, a staggering 41% increase from the previous year. Additionally, Delaware’s rate of drug-related deaths is higher than the national average, with opiates being the leading cause of drug-related deaths in the state. The impact of the opiate epidemic extends beyond just overdose deaths. It has also led to a significant increase in addiction and substance abuse disorders in Delaware. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, an estimated 2.1% of Delaware residents aged 12 and older reported misusing pain relievers in the past year, higher than the national average of 1.6%. The opiate epidemic has also placed a significant strain on Delaware’s healthcare system, with hospitals and treatment centers struggling to meet the demand for addiction treatment services. Many individuals struggling with opiate addiction face barriers to accessing treatment, including a shortage of treatment facilities, lack of insurance coverage, and stigma surrounding addiction. To address the opiate epidemic in Delaware, state and...

NON-PROFIT CARE FOR SUMMER INJURIES

As summer approaches, many people are eager to get outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. However, along with the fun and relaxation of the season, there is also an increased risk of injuries. From sports injuries to accidents while hiking or swimming, there are a variety of common summer injuries that can occur. Chiropractic care can play a valuable role in treating and preventing these injuries. These types of injuries often occur when participating in outdoor summertime physical activities such as running, swimming, playing sports, or hiking. Chiropractors are trained in techniques to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with these injuries, as well as to promote healing and restore range of motion. Another common summer injury is back pain, which can be exacerbated by activities such as gardening, yard work, and water sports. Chiropractic care can help alleviate back pain through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and other treatment modalities. By addressing the underlying cause of the pain, chiropractors can help patients experience lasting relief and prevent future injuries. Swimming is a popular summer activity, but it can also lead to injuries such as shoulder pain or swimmer’s ear. These problems can be resolved by addressing them through chiropractic treatment, which enhances spinal alignment and reduces muscle tension. By restoring balance to the body, chiropractors can help swimmers improve their performance and prevent injuries. Overall, chiropractic care can be a valuable resource for addressing and preventing common summer injuries. Whether you are dealing with a sprain, strain, back pain, or another issue, chiropractors here at Hands for Life can provide not only safe and effective treatment options to...