Abstract
Chronic pain is prevalent in the U.S. and a major source of disability. Americans are familiar with, and often reliant on, pharmacologic interventions for analgesia. However, nonpharmacologic interventions can be equally effective in reducing pain and related impairment. The complex nature of chronic pain and the specific goal of reducing reliance on opioid analgesics, together, support utilizing a more comprehensive, biopsychosocial approach. Although this approach improves clinical outcomes in this population, ongoing barriers require additional research, along with continuing education, to generate equal support of alternative interventions for pain management. Policy changes and a systemic effort to improve current practices in pain management are critical to provide more comprehensive, interdisciplinary care for all people living with chronic pain.
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