Chronic Pain Health Center

I want to try an alternative form of therapy to treat my chronic pain. How do I find a reliable practitioner?

• If you are considering a practitioner-provided alternative therapy for chronic pain management, such as acupuncture or massage, ask a trusted source such as your doctor or a nearby hospital for a recommendation. Find out about the training and experience of any practitioner you are considering trying. Make sure to ask whether the practitioner has experience working on your pain condition specifically.

Is there research for new treatment options?

• In light of the human and economic costs of chronic pain, as well as evidence that many people with chronic pain turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for relief, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) places a high priority on pain-related research. The ultimate goal of research on chronic pain is to build an evidence base that can guide pain management decisions tailored to individuals.