Overcoming opioid addiction is a multifaceted process that requires the support of many people to help the individual address the issues they face. These issues often manifest as mental, emotional, and physical problems related to the addiction. While most people consider addiction therapy to be a mental process aimed at helping the person abstain from drugs, physical therapy, especially in the context of opioid addiction, is a key source of help for these individuals. Let’s explore a few ways physical therapy assists those in overcoming opioid addictions.
Addressing physical health
When a person becomes addicted to opioids, it takes a major toll on their body’s internal systems which can lead to chronic health issues. Often, individuals addicted to opioids experience muscle weakness, joint pain, and cardiovascular problems if the addiction persists for extended periods. Through physical therapy, individuals can address these health issues and regain overall wellness. Targeted exercises are utilized to help rebuild strength, increase muscle mass, and improve cardiovascular fitness. By engaging in the exercises prescribed in physical therapy, the pain that opioid abuse often masks, such as back or shoulder issues, can be properly treated, eliminating the need for medication to manage the pain. Physical therapy can tackle the root cause of the issue, reducing the reliance on drugs and enabling individuals to address the problem naturally.
Managing addiction symptoms
When individuals addicted to opioids begin to detox, they lack certain chemicals that are responsible for improved mood and a sense of joy. Physical therapy strategies help manage these symptoms by encouraging individuals to engage in physical activity. Through participation in physical activity, the body releases natural endorphins promoting a sense of well-being. For example, many runners experience an increase in endorphins after a long jog, often referred to as a “runner’s high.” This phenomenon occurs as the body releases endorphins in the brain, producing feelings of happiness or a sense of accomplishment. Similarly, for those overcoming addiction, physical therapy operates in much the same way. By getting the body moving again and actively working towards health goals, individuals experience the release of endorphins, aiding not only in rebuilding body mass and muscle but also in improving mental and emotional well-being as they feel a sense of achievement through treatment. This approach presents individuals with new health goals to regain their sense of well-being without relying on drugs.
Helps manage withdrawal symptoms
The withdrawal phase of addiction recovery is one of the most daunting for those suffering from opioid addiction. Withdrawal symptoms often include nausea, body aches, anxiety and insomnia. Utilizing physical therapy during this stage helps the individuals manage and overcome these symptoms. Through physical exertion, the body releases endorphins which help ease withdrawal discomfort and provides a boost to the mood of the person. Complementary treatments such as deep breathing exercises, massage therapy and relaxation techniques, used in tandem with physical therapy, also contributes to reducing the individual’s anxiety levels. By teaching people in recovery, the tools to navigate their withdrawal symptoms, physical therapy provides a pathway to recovery without resorting back to drugs as a form of coping.
Physical therapy benefits individuals recovering from opioid abuse in multiple ways. Recognizing the root causes of the person’s addiction and addressing these issues is critical when it comes to the recovery process. Physical therapy stands as a proven method to help guide these individuals in their journey to healing and success in the long term.
