My son, who had a spinal fusion, and many complications, used Kratom successfully to get off pain medications without withdrawals. I researched it, and a friend told me about a segment on the TV show, The Doctor's, and a doctor I used to work for was on it! He had moved out of state several years ago. If anyone wants to Google it... try... (the doctors show kratom Dr. Holcomb) they had doctors on both sides of the issue. Also, kratom was suggested by another doctor for my son's condition. My son was diagnosed with adhesive arachnoiditis. When I googled that, the first thing I read that it was like having stage 4 cancer without the relief of death!! It is when the nerves in your spinal canal adhere to the inside of the spinal canal instead of floating freely in spinal fluid.
Anyway, the doctor gave me the email of someone on the show and I contacted him. That person gave me a link to a website, the Kratom Bible, that had info online and reputable suppliers. There are different types of kratom, some for calming effects, some for pain relief.
When doctors cut back on pain medications for chronic pain patients, kratom provided an option for pain relief and to reduce withdrawal symptoms. It is not an opioid, but uses the same microglial brain receptors that opioid uses.
I ordered sample packs, and once my son tried them and found a blend that helped, I ordered a supply, along with large empty capsules. We put the powder into the capsules. Or you can make a tea.
Like any substance, people can abuse it. My son got off pain medications and said it helped, and had less side effects. I would not purchase from smoke shops locally.
Anyway, just my 2 cents...
Newksm