Nonpharmacologic and Rehabilitative Strategies to Address Chronic Pain

With benefits on pain and pain-related outcomes and low-risk profile, there has been an emphasis on nonpharmacologic management of chronic pain. Physical therapy uses exercises, manual therapies, and electrotherapy. Exercises include aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility exercises. Aquatic exercises have similar efficacy to land-based exercises. Multidisciplinary care uses a biopsychosocial approach. All are effective for pain-related outcomes. Occupational therapy focuses on ergonomics, joint protection, orthoses, and assistive devices. Limited evidence exists for taping, orthoses, assistive devices, thermotherapy, and education on pain-related outcomes. Weight loss in patients who are overweight or obese is effective for pain reduction in knee arthritis.