Evidence of Commonly Used Integrative Approaches with Pharmacotherapy for Chronic Pain Management

J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother. 2024 Sep;38(3):302-317. doi: 10.1080/15360288.2024.2390999. Epub 2024 Dec 2.

Abstract

This review examines the integration of traditional pharmacological methods with alternative and complementary therapies in chronic pain management. It delves into neurostimulation techniques, highlighting their clinical outcomes and biological bases. Acupuncture's role in modulating pain pathways is explored, illustrating its balance of tradition and clinical application. The paper also covers the pain-relieving potential of herbal medicine, emphasizing natural products' significance in pain relief. Additionally, it discusses the psychological and rehabilitative dimensions of pain through psychosocial therapy and counseling. The conclusion underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, integrating diverse therapies into conventional pain management to effectively treat chronic pain. This synthesis highlights the synergistic potential of combining traditional and innovative therapeutic modalities, offering a comprehensive guide for healthcare professionals in enhancing pain management practices.

Keywords: Pharmacotherapy; chronic pain; integrative care.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Therapy / methods
  • Chronic Pain* / drug therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Complementary Therapies* / methods
  • Humans
  • Integrative Medicine / methods
  • Pain Management* / methods
  • Phytotherapy / methods