INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PAIN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE THERAPIES.

Abstract

Purpose

The review aims to synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness and mechanisms of Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM) modalities, including acupuncture, mind-body interventions, and dietary therapies, in managing chronic pain and associated conditions. It also explores future implications, clinical policy, and development in this rapidly evolving field.

 Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted, encompassing studies published from January 2010 to January 2024. Electronic databases were searched using relevant keywords. Studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria were included, focusing on the exclusion of non-English articles and those outside the specified date range. The methodological quality was assessed using standardized tools, although the specific tool used is not mentioned in the abstract. Statistics were synthesized narratively to provide a comprehensive overview of the evidence.

 Results

The review identified a diverse range of studies evaluating the efficacy of CIM modalities in chronic pain management, highlighting their potential to modulate neurological, circulatory, immune, and psychological pathways involved in pain perception and management. Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of CIM modalities in improving pain outcomes and enhancing overall quality of life.

 Conclusion

The review underscores the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms of CIM modalities and their integration into mainstream healthcare practices. Future studies should focus on rigorous methodologies, including randomized controlled trials. 

 Recommendation

It recommends the integration of CIM modalities into clinical practice guidelines and healthcare policies to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered chronic pain care, effectively highlighting this as a recommendation for future action.