Shaquille O’Neal’s Health Struggles
In a candid discussion about his health on the podcast “Armchair Expert With Dax Shepard,” basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal opened up about his long-standing issues with pain management during his illustrious NBA career. The towering 7-foot-1 Hall of Famer shared that, throughout his 19 seasons in professional basketball, he faced persistent pain that led him to use an array of painkillers, both prescribed opioids and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.
Pain Management and Medication Use
O’Neal, who has previously addressed this topic in his 2022 HBO documentary “Shaq,” reflected on his history of taking these medications despite warnings from healthcare professionals. He admitted to using substances like oxycodone for injury recovery and repeatedly taking NSAIDs, which he said might have contributed to his current kidney issues. In a surprisingly casual manner, he noted that he often took more than the directed dosage, stating,
“If it said take one, I’m taking three. It was a club sandwich, fries, and two pills for 19 years.”
Controversial Incidents and Denial
The athlete recalled a troubling incident from 1996 when he tested positive for cocaine ahead of the Olympics, later dismissed after he attributed the result to consuming a poppy seed muffin. However, experts pointed out that poppy seeds would not trigger a cocaine positive, leading to ambiguity over his claim.
Despite the serious implications of long-term medication use, O’Neal admitted to being in denial about his potential dependency on painkillers.
“I had to have them. So, is that addiction?”
he pondered, highlighting the struggles he faced in admitting the truth to himself and his family while discreetly managing his condition with the knowledge of his trainers.
Awareness and Current Coping Mechanisms
Throughout his career, aware of the risks of long-term anti-inflammatory drug use, O’Neal had once voiced concerns about kidney damage risks associated with such medications, particularly in light of his friend Alonzo Mourning’s health struggles. His skepticism didn’t deter him for long, though, as he reverted to using NSAIDs after experiencing gastrointestinal issues.
Today, while recognizing the lasting effects of his past choices, O’Neal attempts to cope with pain in healthier ways, including relaxing with a hookah. He remarked,
“I’ve never been into weed,”
suggesting he seeks solace elsewhere rather than with illicit substances.
Conclusion
O’Neal’s revelations serve as a poignant reminder of the hidden struggles many athletic icons face, balancing the demands of their careers with the toll it takes on their health.
