An Osteopathic Approach to Chronic Pain Management

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Chronic pain significantly impacts quality of life and economic productivity.
• Opioid prescriptions for chronic pain have led to widespread addiction and overdose crises.
• The US Surgeon General advocates for nonpharmacologic treatments to address chronic pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline nonpharmacologic treatment strategies for chronic pain.
• To guide osteopathic physicians in integrating alternative pain management modalities.
• To promote a patient-centered approach in chronic pain care.

Main Methods:

• Review of cognitive behavioral approaches for pain.
• Identification of nonopioid pharmacologic therapies.
• Exploration of diverse nonpharmacologic interventions.

Main Results:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) offers a framework for pain self-management.
• Nonopioid medications and therapies provide alternatives to opioids.
• Holistic nonpharmacologic strategies can be integrated into osteopathic practice.

Conclusions:

• Osteopathic physicians can lead a paradigm shift in chronic pain management.
• Integrating nonpharmacologic therapies empowers patients and reduces opioid risks.
• A multimodal, patient-centered approach is crucial for effective chronic pain treatment.