Safety/Adverse Effects of CAM Interventions for Pain

In general, CAM interventions for pain are quite benign due to the low potency/low intensity/low input nature of techniques. Below are listed safety and adverse effects to be aware of for CAM interventions commonly used for pain management.

Biofeedback

Problems with biofeedback as an intervention for pain are rare. Electrodes only receive electrical input from body, but do not emit electricity, so there is no risk of injury. There may be a risk for anxiety in techno phobic patients.

Hypnosis

There are widespread but inaccurate myths that persist about hypnosis such as being hypnotized against one’s will, inability to leave the trance state, and enacting behaviors against one’s moral code.

Meditation

It can be used obsessively as a rationale for social avoidance. It may allow repressed memories and emotions to surface, so guidance is advised if patient has a history of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychiatric disease.

Craniosacral Therapy

There are rarely complaints from patients, but mainstream osteopaths note the risk that inadequately trained clinicians may inadvertently cause structural misalignments.

Acupuncture

Side effects are rare and infection is no longer an issue with the nearly universal use of disposable needles.

Homeopathy

There are frequent mild exacerbations of symptoms before resolution, the so-called “healing crisis”, but it is generally safe.

Herbs

There are generally far fewer side effects than with prescription allopathic medications, but interactions must be addressed. For pain medications, the most common issues are abuse of opiates and cannabinoids. Concerns about the purity and standardization of preparations are not yet resolved, so established and reputable sources and suppliers should be used.

Reiki/TT

There have been no reports of adverse reactions.