Individuals with spinal cord injuries are disproportionately affected with OUD (Opioid Use Disorder). A spinal cord injury typically requires the use of various pain-killing medications in an effort to manage pain effectively. However, data shows that after 5 days of use of an opioid, the risk of long term abuse is drastically higher. The AZSCIA is committed to providing services around: prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Our core belief is that opioids are not a sustainable method of treatment for this population. Pain management is a complex issue with a wide range of applicable strategies that can be effective. The goal is to manage pain while simultaneously limiting the chance of opioid use disorder (OUD). For individuals suffering from OUD; MAT therapy has proven to be an extremely effective treatment, one which the AZSCIA supports for any individual who makes that choice.

​On this page you will find our OUD Response which encompasses all aspects of OUD prevention, treatment, and recovery. These resources have been vetted to ensure that they are applicable to those with spinal cord injuries. OUD for this community simply looks different, and requires curated action for our community members in crisis to be successful.

"Pain Doesn't Have to Kill"

Prevention

Treatment

Recovery

Education

AZSCIA Toolkit

Transportation

Share Your Story

OPIOID Surveys

Highlights