What to Do When Painkillers Are in Short Supply: Traditional Chinese Medicine Alternatives in Calgary

Nationwide Painkiller Shortage: What Are Your Options in Calgary?

Canada is currently experiencing a nationwide shortage of common painkillers, leaving many Calgarians struggling to find relief from chronic pain, injuries, headaches, and more. Pharmacies across Alberta have reported empty shelves, and patients are looking for effective, safe alternatives to manage their pain.

If you or a loved one are affected by this shortage, it might be the perfect time to explore what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can offer—including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle advice rooted in thousands year-old wisdom.

Why Is There a Painkiller Shortage in Canada?

Pharmacy chains and healthcare providers have confirmed ongoing shortages of key over-the-counter and prescription pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and even some prescription opioids. Factors include:

• Supply chain disruptions

• Increased demand

• Global manufacturing delays

• Ongoing healthcare system pressures

While these issues are being addressed at the national level, many people in Calgary are left searching for alternative ways to manage their pain safely.

Natural Pain Relief Through TCM: What Are Your Options?

1. Acupuncture: Science-Backed Pain Relief

Acupuncture is a proven method for reducing pain and inflammation by stimulating your body’s own healing processes. Major medical organizations—including the World Health Organization—recommend acupuncture for various types of pain, including:

• Back pain

• Neck pain

• Migraines & headaches

• Joint pain (arthritis)

• Post-injury recovery

• Menstrual pain

How it works: Fine, sterile needles are inserted at specific points to restore balance, improve circulation, and release natural painkillers (endorphins).

2. Traditional Herbal Medicine: Targeted Formulas for Your Pain

TCM offers a range of herbal formulas designed to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and support long-term healing. Unlike “one-size-fits-all” painkillers, traditional herbal remedies are customized to your unique diagnosis and pain pattern.

Some well-known herbal options for pain management include:

• Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (for arthritis and joint pain)

• Jia Wei Xiao Yao San (for tension and stress-related pain)

• Yan Hu Suo (for acute or chronic pain syndromes)

At JD AcuCare, all herbal formulas are sourced from trusted suppliers and tailored to your individual needs for both safety and effectiveness.

3. Diet, Movement, and Lifestyle Advice

TCM is holistic—it considers your sleep, digestion, stress, and movement. Simple adjustments to your daily routine can make a real difference in your pain levels, often with fewer side effects than conventional drugs.

Why Try TCM for Pain Relief in Calgary?

• Personalized care: Every treatment is tailored to your unique situation.

• Fewer side effects: TCM approaches support your body naturally, often with less risk than long-term medication use.

• Addresses root causes: Instead of just masking pain, TCM aims to restore balance and address the underlying issues.

• Regulated professionals: In Alberta, acupuncture and herbal medicine are provided by licensed, highly trained practitioners.

See our other posts on TCM and pain

• Neck and Shoulder Pain in Calgary: Could Hidden Toxins Be the Cause?

• The Power of Bleeding, Cupping, and Gua Sha: Releasing Toxins and Relieving Pain

• Finding Relief from Fibromyalgia: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

If you’re in Calgary and can’t access your usual pain medications—or you’re looking for a more holistic, long-term solution—acupuncture and TCM may help. Many of our patients at JD AcuCare have found lasting relief from chronic pain, often after trying multiple conventional approaches without success.

Common conditions treated:

• Musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, shoulder, knee)

• Nerve pain (sciatica, neuropathy)

• Headaches & migraines

• Menstrual pain & endometriosis

• Sports injuries

• Post-surgical pain

Book a Consultation or Learn More

JD AcuCare is committed to helping Calgarians find safe, effective alternatives during this nationwide painkiller shortage. Dr. Kim and our team offer comprehensive TCM assessments and individualized treatment plans.

Ready to take control of your pain naturally?

Contact us today to discuss your options.