Nonpharmacological treatments have proven effective for many pain conditions. For example, recent studies have shown that endorphins mediate the analgesic effects of acupuncture and placebos as well. Still to be discovered is the mechanism by which hypnosis accomplishes its analgesic effects. Other conditions also need a medication management component. The Addiction-Free Pain Management® System uses both of those components as well as interventions designed to help people cope with the psychological/emotional symptoms of their pain.
 
Some pain disorders require pharmacological (prescription drug) interventions. Other conditions may respond to over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen. Still other conditions may need a combination of both. However, some pain disorders can be effectively treated without any chemical interventions at all. I have a partial list of some of these nonpharmacological interventions below.

Nonpharmacological Approaches

Emotional Management              Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy                         Chiropractic Treatment
Acupuncture                               Biofeedback
Hypnosis                                    Meditation and Relaxation
Yoga/Tai Chi                               Diet/Nutrition
Sweat Lodges                             Talking Circles
TENS Units                                 Self-Help Groups
Cranial Sacral                              Reflexology
EMDR                                         Aerobics
Avoidance/Distraction                Sleep Hygiene
Swim/Hydrotherapy                  Shiatsu/Watsu Therapy
Journaling                                   Art Therapy
Reiki Therapy/Energy              12-Step/Self-Help Groups

As I mentioned this is just a partial list and the only limitation is your imagination. To learn more about the Addiction-Free Pain Management® System please visit our website www.addiction-free.com and check out our Publications page to learn about my new book Managing Pain and Coexisting Disorders or read my article Serving People with Chronic Pain and Coexisting Disorders.