Over 50% of US adults report drinking alcohol in the past month, and 17% binge drink. These statistics show how prevalent alcohol use is in the country. And the reasons behind such pervasiveness are wide-ranging — from stress to chronic pain. If you’re one of those asking, “Does alcohol relieve chronic pain?” this blog is for you.Chronic pain is a challenging experience. So, if you have one, it’s understandable that you may constantly search for effective relief methods. While many traditional treatments are available, such as medications and physical therapy, they may not always provide the desired results. This can lead you to explore even unhealthy methods.Truthfully, the idea of using alcohol to dull pain isn’t new. However, you must understand thoroughly the potential risks associated with alcohol use. Keep reading and learn more about this topic and gain insights into safer and more effective pain management alternatives.
Chronic pain persists for weeks, whether steady or intermittent. It can feel sharp, dull, burning, or aching and affect nearly any part of the body. Today, over 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from chronic pain. It’s also the leading cause of long-term disability in the US, where it affects about 100 million Americans. Some of the most common types of chronic pain include:
Chronic pain can start from an injury, like a back sprain or pulled muscle, leading to nerve damage that prolongs the pain. Sometimes, chronic pain happens without prior injury, possibly due to conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, interstitial cystitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), and vulvodynia (chronic vulva pain).Simply put, chronic pain can be debilitating. It limits mobility, disrupts sleep, and causes significant emotional distress, such as anxiety and depression. As stated, some conventional pain management methods may not work for all. This prompts others to try alcohol and see for themselves the answer to this pressing question: “Can alcohol relieve chronic pain?”
Using alcohol to relieve pain is actually common. Research by the US National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests that 28% of people with chronic pain turn to alcohol for relief. So, does alcohol help with pain? In a way, yes. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, temporarily numbing pain sensations without directly reducing the pain. There are also studies backing alcohol’s potential to provide short-term pain relief. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain found that a blood alcohol content (BAC) of about 0.08% (roughly two pints of lager or medium glasses of wine) slightly increased pain thresholds and moderately reduced pain ratings by about 25%. However, there’s a downside: The body quickly develops a tolerance. As a result, more alcohol is required to achieve the same effect. And this can lead to alcoholism.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, women should limit alcohol to one drink a day, and men to two. But for pain relief, alcohol is most effective at higher levels, which can be risky.This underscores the fact that using alcohol to manage pain can lead to addiction and dependence. As your body develops tolerance, more alcohol is needed to achieve the same pain-relieving effects. In the long run, this dependence can become a serious issue, affecting both your physical and mental health.Keep in mind that long-term alcohol use can have severe consequences. Mixing alcohol with pain medications can be particularly harmful. For example, if you combine alcohol with acetaminophen, it can cause acute liver failure. And if you mix it with aspirin, it increases the risk of stomach bleeding. Alcohol also amplifies the effects of opiates, raising the risk of misuse and overdose.Chronic alcohol use can also worsen pain over time. Withdrawal from alcohol often increases pain sensitivity, which can drive individuals to drink more to ease any withdrawal-induced pain. Moreover, there’s a correlation between drinking alcohol and pain in joints. Alcohol can trigger inflammation in the body, affecting various systems, including your muscles and joints. This inflammation can cause joint pain and stiffness, especially if you have arthritis or autoimmune disorders.
Now that you know how does alcohol relieve chronic pain — and the risks that come with using it — it’s time to explore the safer route.
Managing chronic pain often requires a mix of medical treatments and therapies tailored to your needs. Medications like NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and prescription pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation. Sometimes, antidepressants and anticonvulsants are used for specific types of pain, like neuropathic pain. Procedures such as nerve blocks, epidural injections, and spinal cord stimulation can also provide significant relief.
Non-drug approaches can complement medical treatments. Physical therapy is key for improving mobility, strength, and flexibility. Exercise programs can reduce pain and boost overall well-being. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help manage pain by reducing stress and improving mental resilience.
Diet and lifestyle changes can greatly impact chronic pain management. Eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and pain. Staying hydrated and cutting back on processed foods, sugars, and alcohol can also improve pain management.Lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, practicing good posture, and staying active can enhance your health and reduce pain. Professional support from pain management specialists, counselors, and support groups can provide valuable guidance and emotional support.Cutting down on alcohol consumption is also crucial if you’ve been relying on it for pain relief. Gradually reducing alcohol intake, under the supervision of a professional, can prevent the development of dependence and mitigate the negative health impacts associated with long-term alcohol use.
Chronic pain can be overwhelming, but turning to alcohol for relief can lead to serious consequences. So, while the answer to “Can alcohol relieve chronic pain?” is yes — primarily due to the temporary numbing effects it offers — the long-term risks of alcohol addiction are something you shouldn’t ignore. Apart from developing alcohol abuse, it can also lead to worsened health conditions and increased pain sensitivity. The key to successfully managing chronic pain is to opt for safer methods, including medical treatments, physical therapy, exercise, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle changes.If you’re struggling with chronic pain and considering alcohol for relief, it’s essential to explore these healthier options and seek professional support. Remember: Don’t let pain drive you to alcohol addiction. In need of assistance? Oregon Trail Recovery is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs.