Advances in Pain Management: From Opioids to Non-Pharmacological Approaches

Abstract

Pain management is a crucial healthcare concern, with millions of people suffering from acute and chronic pain around the world. Opioids have long been the conventional treatment for pain management, especially in cases of severe or persistent pain. However, the opioid epidemic has emphasized the risks connected with opioid usage, such as addiction, overdose, and mortality. As a result, there is a greater emphasis on non-pharmacological pain management techniques. This review looks at a variety of non-pharmacological methods, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), physical therapy, acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), biofeedback, and music therapy. These approaches seek to treat pain without the use of medicines, thereby reducing side effects and increasing patient results. The review shows that these measures can effectively lower pain intensity, improve quality of life, and give safer alternatives to opioids, so contributing to the fight against the opioid epidemic. The incorporation of non-pharmacological treatments into pain management is a potential approach for future healthcare practices, but further study and clinical application are required to optimize their efficacy and increase their use.