Complementary medicines for the management of musculoskeletal pain

Patients often initiate the use of complementary medicines for musculoskeletal pain. For some complementary medicines there is evidence that they provide no benefit in the treatment of pain; however, for the majority of complementary medicines there is no evidence for or against benefit. The concentration of active ingredients in complementary medicines can vary between brands because of the range of sources used and different methods of processing. The role of glucosamine, chondroitin and other complementary medicines for osteoarthritis are discussed in Complementary medicines in osteoarthritis.

Complementary medicines can cause adverse effects or interact with conventional medicines. Patients often do not spontaneously disclose their use of complementary medicines so, as part of a thorough medication history, actively ask about the use of complementary medicines.

The National Institute of Health (US) website has links for health information and research about complementary medicines.