Key Points:
From 01/02/18 codeine-containing products became available only with a prescription
Research and consumption trends have shown since 2009 that codeine is not effective for treatment of chronic (long-term) pain
Serious risks of harm are associated with the use of codeine, including death
Pain management and access to services, for chronic pain sufferers, requires serious improvement, increased funding and increased support-workers training
What can Australians, suffering from chronic pain, do to self-manage their pain
From 01/02/18, Australians were no longer be able to access over-the-counter Codeine based products without a prescription.
This may or may not have a direct impact on you - BUT - you may not even be aware that at some time you have used or been prescribed, a medication containing codeine.
Why the restriction on over-the-counter purchases?
Codeine is an opioid drug closely related to morphine and, like morphine, is derived from opium poppies. Codeine can cause opioid tolerance, dependence, addiction, poisoning and in high doses, even death.
Since around 2009, the Federal Government has been working towards bringing Australia into line with America and the UK where the risk of drug dependence and misuse, as well as accidental overdose from opioid consumption, has escalated.
Many Australians don't realise how much harm codeine can cause.
Regular use of medicines containing codeine, has led to some Australians becoming addicted to codeine without realising it. In fact, research shows medicines containing codeine used for pain relief (in particular chronic pain) offer very little benefit when compared to medicines which do not contain codeine. The risks associated with codeine use have been deemed too high without oversight from a doctor, hence the ban.
I have chronic pain – what alternative is now available to me?
It is important to remember when pain has become a chronic condition, a cure is unlikely and medication is not always the most effective solution.
Of course, the most effective way to manage chronic pain, with the aim to reducing disability and to improve function and quality of life, is to address the issue before it becomes chronic. Waiting for mainstream intervention can be a lengthy process and meanwhile you are suffering and getting worse.
At SumetBodyworx we treat the whole person and address all areas of your body impacted by pain.
Completing a total body assessment, we look at your points of PAIN / STRAIN and RESISTANCE to pinpoint what, where and why your muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia are not functioning correctly.
Once these points have been addressed a tailored Bowen Therapy plan is put in place.
Your pain-management plan will require a dedicated commitment from you!
No two bodies experience chronic pain in the same manner. Symptoms, degree of pain, cause of pain are all different and individual
Our aim is to work together, with you, by playing an active role in guiding you to ultimately self-manage your condition. This means together we work towards getting you, on a daily basis, to actively embrace the desire to ‘Get better with Bowen’ utilising pain management strategies such as Bowen Therapy and gentle exercise, while pacing your daily activities.
With Bowen Therapy potentially you may feel some relief after 2-3 sessions. However, chronic pain is just that CHRONIC and it has been long-term in its development to this point. Depending on how long you have had your condition it may require a few more sessions before bringing your condition under control.
At all times we encourage you to communicate your Bowen Therapy progress with your GP and any other health providers. We are happy to provide reports on your progress upon request to ensure you are receiving a coordinated approach for your pain management.
If you would like to explore how Bowen Therapy can assist you with chronic pain, and get your health back under your control, call Gail on 0417 005 510 OR check out our website at www.sumetbodyworx.com.au for further details.
References:
https://www.tga.gov.au/codeine-info-hub
http://www.painaustralia.org.au/static/uploads/files/painaustralia-codiene-fact-sheet-october-2017-wfxosgjjccah.pdf
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/3303.0~2016~Main%20Features~Drug%20Induced%20Deaths%20in%20Australia~6
About:
Gail Tumes is a qualified Bowen Therapist living and practising in Forest Lake, Queensland. Having been on the receiving end of Bowen Therapy for over 30 years, in 2015, Gail decided to embark on a long desired career in Complementary/ Alternative therapies. Gail now has her own thriving practice where she works with clients from all walks of life and all age groups providing them with the healing gift of Bowen Therapy.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is not intended to replace your personal relationship with your GP and is not intended as medical advice or as a replacement for prescribed interventions. The material appearing on the website is for educational purposes only.