The opioid epidemic continues to rise in America, and a 2017 report from the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly suggests the crisis now affects more older adults.

A main reason for the growing addiction to pain medicine is the ease with which it is often prescribed.

Depending on your condition, the location of your pain, and its severity, there may be other pain management strategies available besides medication. If you find yourself automatically reaching for the pill bottle, speak with your doctor about whether any of these therapies might benefit you.