Occupational Therapy Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Adults With Chronic Pain: A Rapid Systematic Review

Abstract

People around the world, someone you know, or even a loved one experience chronic pain that impacts their ability to engage in meaningful activities. According to the World Health Organization, one in two adults in the United States lives with chronic pain. In recent years, prescribing opioids appeared to be a quick, easy fix for pain management. Opioid use, however, is associated with adverse effects to the mind and body and may become a financial burden or addiction for many users. Reducing opioid use while improving chronic pain and function is the leading rehabilitative objective of occupational therapy for chronic pain. Occupational therapy practitioners address and treat many conditions involving chronic pain and educate their clients about effectively managing that pain while participating in desired occupations. This article highlights the evidence of 25 chronic pain intervention studies so that occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals can make evidence-based decisions about the interventions they choose for adults with chronic pain who are working toward maximal occupational engagement.