An Osteopathic Approach to Chronic Pain Management

J Am Osteopath Assoc. 2017 May 1;117(5):306-314. doi: 10.7556/jaoa.2017.056.

Abstract

Chronic pain reduces quality of life and productivity, costing billions in health care dollars and lost revenue. Physicians routinely prescribe opioids, which has led to opioid addiction and overdose. The US surgeon general recommends nonpharmacologic treatment for patients with chronic pain. A paradigm shift is necessary for patients to partner with physicians to take control of their own health. This article outlines the cognitive behavioral approaches, nonopioid therapies, and nonpharmacologic therapies that osteopathic physicians can integrate in their treatment of patients with chronic pain.

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Pain / physiopathology
  • Chronic Pain / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Osteopathic Medicine*
  • Self-Management

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid