Holistic ways to manage chronic pain
You don’t have to live with chronic pain — or risky medications
Living with pain that never really goes away can affect everything you do, from getting dressed in the morning to spending time with family. Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting longer than 3 months, is more common than many realize. And for years, opioids (or narcotics) were often the first line of treatment.
“That approach is now changing,” says Darla Snyder Lee, CRNP, a nurse practitioner specializing in anesthesiology and pain management at Geisinger. “While opioids can help manage pain in the short term, they carry serious risks, including dependence and addiction.”
Today, more healthcare providers are turning to holistic, multidisciplinary pain management strategies that address the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Why managing chronic pain is complex
Pain is deeply personal. “What feels sharp and stabbing to one person might feel like burning or throbbing to another,” says Ms. Lee. Because of that, effective chronic pain care must be individualized. “A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works, and medication alone often isn’t enough.”
A holistic approach to pain relief
Multidisciplinary pain management combines medical, physical and behavioral therapies to help people manage pain more effectively — and safely. This approach focuses on building resilience, restoring function and reducing reliance on medications.
Common elements of holistic pain management include:
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, stretching, meditation and guided imagery can reduce tension and help the brain process pain differently.
- Exercise and movement: Gentle, consistent activity like walking or aquatic therapy can improve flexibility, circulation and well-being.
- Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables can reduce inflammation and support healing.
- Behavioral pacing: Learning to balance activity and rest helps prevent pain flare-ups and fatigue.
- Sleep hygiene: Better sleep promotes physical recovery and helps the body manage pain signals more effectively.
- Support systems: Whether through group therapy, peer support or counseling, connection can make chronic pain feel less isolating.
The goal: reclaiming quality of life
While chronic pain may not disappear completely, many people find significant relief — and freedom — through a multidisciplinary approach. “By combining therapies that address the physical, emotional and social aspects of pain, patients often report better function, improved mood and less dependence on medication,” says Ms. Lee.
When to seek help
If pain is interfering with your daily life, work or relationships, talk with your primary care provider. They can help you explore non-opioid pain management options or refer you to a multidisciplinary pain management program.
Next steps:
Is a multidisciplinary pain management program right for you?
Find a pain management specialist
How do over-the-counter pain relievers work?
Learn more about multidisciplinary pain management
Geisinger’s multidisciplinary pain management program (MPP) in Danville is an 8-session program that helps people with chronic pain find the right solutions to overcome it. Hear how some of our patients benefitted from MPP:
