Integrative Treatment Strategies for Chronic Back Pain: A Literature Review with Clinical Recommendations

Nina H. Russin (), Alexis M. Koskan and Lesley Manson
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Nina H. Russin: College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 425 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
Alexis M. Koskan: College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 425 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
Lesley Manson: College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, 425 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 2, 1-12

Abstract: Problem: Chronic back pain (CBP) is a major cause of disability, contributing significantly to healthcare costs and primary care visits. Pharmacotherapy alone is insufficient in managing CBP. Integrated behavioral health interventions that include psychoeducation are critical for a more holistic, sustainable treatment of CBP. Objectives: This review explores CBP treatments that includes psychoeducation as part of patient care. Methods: In the Fall of 2024, the first author searched Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus using search terms related to chronic back pain and integrated behavioral interventions to increase patients’ self-efficacy to manage CBP. The team included articles in the review that were published more recently and seminal articles in the field of managing CBP. Results: Given the complex biopsychosocial factors influencing CBP, and the individualized nature of each patient’s pain experience, patient psychoeducation should include a multimodal approach, which may include cognitive behavioral strategies to address pain, pain neuroscience education, and education related to lifestyle behaviors such as physical activity, sleep, nutrition, and stress management. Patient education and behavioral interventions integrated within primary care can significantly improve patient engagement and self-reported improvements in pain intensity, functionality, and quality of life. Conclusion: Psychoeducation is foundational for integrative programs aimed at managing CBP.

Keywords: chronic back pain; biopsychosocial model; brief behavioral interventions; lifestyle modification; psychoeducation; older adults; primary care (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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