The role of adjunctive therapy in the management of chronic nonmalignant pain

The management of chronic nonmalignant pain is an increasing challenge to clinicians and their patients. Adjunctive therapy, which includes a wide range of physical, psychoeducational, and multidisciplinary interventions, can play an important role in the treatment of pain. This article discusses the role and efficacy of adjunctive therapy in the management of pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions, the most common and disabling sources of chronic nonmalignant pain. Findings from meta-analyses, review articles, and recent clinical trials are reviewed that suggest that interventions that combine exercise and psychoeducational approaches designed to enhance communication, control, problem-solving, and coping can have a clinically significant impact on reducing pain and improving functional status for many conditions. Am J Med. 1996;101(suppl 1A):33S–39S.