A video that went viral on social media recently depicted two gas station attendants who were visibly impaired by opioid use, highlighting the harsh reality of the opioid epidemic in America. This problem is only worsening, as honest citizens who are trying to make a living and survive become addicted to dangerous opiates, often prescribed by their own doctors.

At Ramos Center, we are dedicated to finding alternative solutions for our patients before resorting to prescription painkillers. Our responsible prescribing practices ensure that our patients never have to fight opioid addiction alone. We offer various alternative treatments that not only alleviate pain but also have long-lasting benefits for your health.

Functional Pain Medicine focuses on the underlying causes of pain and weight gain, and our practitioners plan a customized treatment for each patient. Physical therapy can also help patients rehabilitate after an accident or surgery, with one-on-one attention from our physical therapists. For those who require drug therapy, we offer targeted drug delivery, which delivers medication directly into the affected area of the spinal cord, lowering the dosage of pain medication and increasing effectiveness.

At Ramos Center, we believe community involvement is essential to combating the epidemic, and we have partnered with Drug Free Sarasota and Drug Free Manatee. We prescribe proper medication and encourage a drug-free environment.

If you have been prescribed opiates, it is important to secure, monitor, and dispose of them properly, take only what is prescribed, and talk to your teens about the dangers of prescription drug abuse.

If you or a loved one needs alternative pain management options, do not hesitate to visit us at Ramos Center. We welcome walk-ins and appointments and are happy to answer any questions you may have.