Summary of Findings:

The study investigated factors influencing the use of integrative health and medicine (IHM) and nonpharmacologic modalities instead of opioids among U.S. adults with chronic pain. Analysis of the 2019 National Health Interview Survey revealed that living in metropolitan areas, higher income, more education, multiple pain locations, and frequent pain impacting daily activities were linked to greater use of IHM for pain management. Conversely, being older, male, of non-Hispanic Black/African American ethnicity, and daily opioid use correlated with lower IHM use. Additionally, older age, male gender, and increased depressive symptoms were associated with a reduced variety of IHM modalities used. For exclusive nonpharmacologic modality use, metropolitan residence, higher income, and education were positive predictors, while older age and frequent pain interference with life were negative predictors.

Importance:

This research highlights disparities in the use of nonpharmacologic pain management and IHM modalities, suggesting the need to address access barriers for certain subpopulations, such as older adults, Black/African American individuals, rural residents, and those with lower socioeconomic status.

Contribution to Literature:

The study contributes to understanding the demographic and socioeconomic factors that influence the choice of pain management strategies, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions to improve access to nonpharmacologic and IHM options for managing chronic pain.