Nonpharmacologic Options for Treating Acute and Chronic Pain

Abstract

This article provides a broad overview of the clinical nonpharmacologic treatment options for managing acute and chronic pain. Physical therapy and modalities, interventional techniques, emerging regenerative medicine, and cognitive behavioral paradigms of treatment are presented. Recommendations are evidence-based and are a practical resource for the musculoskeletal pain and sports medicine practitioner.

Non-pharmaceutical Methods for Pain Management: An Occupational Therapist’s Perspective on Chronic Pain

“…The cyclic nature of this pattern is referred to as deconditioning syndrome and supports the concept of exercise and fitness reducing chronic pain symptoms (Gupta, et al, 2019). Many varieties of exercise like yoga, Pilates, and other strengthening programs have been added to the literature supporting the efficacy of fitness in pain management (Atalay, Akova, Gur, & Sekir, 2017;Gupta, et al, 2019;Wu, et. al., 2015).…”

“…Occupational therapy's role in chronic pain management is lacking due to not having enough literature supporting the efficacy of non-pharmaceutical interventions (Wu, Meleger, Witkower, Mondale, & Borg-Stein, 2015). Solutions that are longer-term and more effective need to be given as a tool to clinicians so that their patients can have increased independence and QOL.…”

“…Nonpharmaceutical interventions are provided methods of treatment, other than drugs, utilized to reduce chronic pain in patients (Yaban, 2019). This project will focus on how occupational therapists can utilize body mechanics, adaptive equipment, adaptive strategies, aquatic therapy, and fitness programs to reduce chronic pain symptoms, increase independence, and quality of life (Atlay, Akova, Giir, & Sekir, 2017;Gupta, et al, 2019;Hill, 2016;Simon & Collins, 2017;Keane, 2016;Rochman, 2014;Wu, et al, 2015). These techniques form the foundation of the manual created in this capstone project that provides a practical tool for clinicians to utilize when treating chronic pain.…”

“…A study by Wu et al (2015) states that yoga has been associated with improved posturing, lower stress and anxiety rates, and pain relief. The coupling of mental focus and purposeful positioning bonds the physical and mental components that are impacted by chronic pain.…”

“…The study also explains the benefits of Pilates and its emphasis on core strengthening, body posturing, coordination, and breathing for relieving chronic pain. The connection between mind and body promotes both physical and mental wellness (Wu, et al, 2015).…”