Use of non-pharmacological strategies for pain relief in addiction treatment patients with chronic pain

Abstract

Background and objectives: We examined use of non-pharmacological treatments for pain in addiction treatment patients.

Methods: Patients in addiction treatment with chronic pain (N = 501) were classified based on use of non-pharmacological pain treatments. Demographic and clinical correlates were compared.

Results: A total of 49% (N = 243) of patients used a non-pharmacological treatment in the past year versus 72% (N = 361) who used opioids. Non-pharmacological treatment users were more likely to use opioids and other pain medications.

Conclusions: Non-pharmacological treatments are less commonly used than opioids by addiction treatment patients.

Scientific significance: Findings highlight the need to better understand pain treatment decision-making among addiction treatment patients. (Am J Addict 2017;26:564-567).