An Analysis of the Effectiveness of Integrative Therapies for Chronic Trapezius Pain

Abstract

Millions suffer from chronic pain, particularly chronic back pain, but treatment-related research is limited, leading to physician overprescription of highly addictive drugs such as opioids. A common non-pharmacological treatment for chronic pain has been physical therapy, but this study examines a form of Eastern-hemisphere, mind-body techniques known as integrative therapies as a potential treatment for chronic pain in the trapezius. This study primarily analyzes acupuncture, massage therapy, and Ayurveda, three integrative therapies, to determine whether they are effective in treating chronic trapezius pain. Since integrative therapies have a large psychological component, the study also focuses on identifying whether perception of integrative therapies can influence its effectiveness and what factors can impact this perception. Through a series of interviews conducted with pain specialists, the study determines that massage therapy and Ayurveda are comparable to or more effective than physical therapy as chronic trapezius pain treatments, but the success of the therapy is dependent on the patient’s psychological perception of it. The study then conducted a survey of the general population, which revealed that while experience with integrative therapies does not appear to impact one’s perception of integrative therapy, those from an Asian/Middle Eastern background perceive integrative treatments differently and potentially perceive them as more effective. A better perception of integrative therapies leads to greater success with this treatment. These findings demonstrate that education of integrative therapies should be more widespread to counter stereotypes and misconceptions so that chronic pain treatment is, overall, more effective.