Painkillers Inhibit Bone Healing

October 9, 2004

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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers known as NSAIDs continue to be

prescribed for patients as part of their recovery for healing fractures even

though using these medications have been found to diminish bone healing,

formation and remodeling.

NSAIDs block cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes that create prostaglandins,

chemicals in the body that cause inflammation that can lead to problems with

indigestion and cause ulcers. Several of the prostaglandins, created by

COX-1 enzymes, are also important in forming new bones that promote healing.

As a result, researchers believe NSAIDs exert significant effects on the

slowing of bone formation after injuries, the healing of fractures and the

growth of bone around prostheses. In some cases, however, some NSAIDs have a

positive effect on soft-tissue healing by stimulating collagen that can

increase the strength in the early phases of skin and ligament healing, but

results have been inconclusive.

Researchers recommended in cases of healing fractures and spinal fusions,

NSAIDs should be avoided at all costs.

Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons May-June

2004;12(3):139-43

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Dr. Mercola's Comment:

You’ve heard me say time and again, using drugs as temporary bandages to

cure symptoms rather than the root cause of your problems does far more harm

than good. That same logic applies here too.

If you want to heal properly from a bone injury or surgery, here’s more

evidence you should avoid medications such as Celebrex and Vioxx. There are

10 billion other reasons not to take pain relievers, as in all the dollars

pharmaceutical companies steal from your pockets annually!

Truth is, by merely changing the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fats--essential

to human health--you already have a natural alternative to taking drugs at

your fingertips.

Giving you the tools to take personal control of your own health is the best

and most important reason I started this Web site. I encourage you to take

the next step in your journey to better total health by subscribing to my

twice-weekly newsletter sent free to Mercola.com rs.

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