Key takeaways

• Chronic pain can often be managed without medication through physical therapy, mind-body techniques and lifestyle changes.
• Non-medication approaches such as exercise, mindfulness, acupuncture and social support can help reduce pain and improve quality of life.
• Avoiding pain medications reduces the risk of side effects and promotes long-term well-being.
• CenterWell Senior Primary Care® supports patients with managing pain while promoting overall health.

Moving beyond medication for chronic pain relief

Chronic pain—defined as pain lasting 3 months or more—can have a profound impact on physical, mental and emotional well-being.¹ It may interrupt sleep, increase stress and worry, and reduce your ability to engage in everyday activities.

The typical approach to managing pain often relies on medication, but this path is not the only option. CenterWell Senior Primary Care offers a holistic, patient-centered model that emphasizes complementary therapies and personalized care, helping patients manage pain while promoting overall health.

Physical therapy and movement

At CenterWell Senior Primary Care, our clinicians understand that gentle, regular movement is essential for managing chronic pain. With guidance from our dedicated care teams, patients are encouraged to participate in activities suited to their abilities, such as walking or swimming, to improve mobility and circulation.

Physical therapy is often integrated into care plans, allowing patients to work with licensed therapists on exercises that stretch and strengthen muscles. These interventions not only help to relieve pain but also restore function, prevent future injury and enhance overall quality of life.

Mind-body techniques and stress management

CenterWell Senior Primary Care recognizes the strong connection between mental well-being and physical health. Our providers may recommend integrative therapies such as yoga, tai chi or mindfulness-based stress reduction, which combine gentle movement, breathing exercises and meditation to ease discomfort and calm the mind.

Stress management is crucial because stress has a strong connection to pain in the brain. Stress can make the nervous system more reactive, amplifying pain signals. Mindfulness-based approaches may help reduce the intensity of chronic pain and improve physical function. There are a few ways to improve stress through relaxation techniques, such as:1

• Diaphragmatic (deep) breathing
• Guided imagery (imagining a peaceful place)
• Progressive muscle relaxation (recommended for chronic low-back pain)
• Mindfulness meditation
• Hypnosis (may require at least 8 sessions)

By addressing stress and emotional health, you may achieve greater comfort and control over your symptoms.

Specialized alternative therapies

CenterWell Senior Primary Care takes an open-minded approach to alternative pain management strategies, including:²

• Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice uses fine needles inserted into strategic points to stimulate your central nervous system and body’s natural healing energy. It may help with back pain, migraines/tension headaches, pain related to cancer treatment and more.
• Massage therapy: Massages manipulate soft tissue, which increases blood flow to the area in pain. This may help with conditions such as back pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia and more.
• Yoga and tai chi: These practices focus on breathing, meditation and flexibility, which have benefits for many types of chronic pain.

Lifestyle and social support

A healthy lifestyle is at the heart of our philosophy. Our care teams help patients create practical routines that include nutritious eating, prioritizing sleep and maintaining a positive outlook. Engaging in hobbies and social activities—such as joining a support group or enjoying music and art—can distract from pain and foster emotional resilience. At CenterWell Senior Primary Care, patients are never alone; our healthcare providers work to build supportive relationships and connect individuals to resources that enhance their well-being.

The benefits of managing pain without medication

By focusing on holistic pain management, we help patients avoid the risks associated with long-term medication use, such as drowsiness, digestive issues and hormone imbalances. Non-medication strategies not only reduce the likelihood of side effects and organ damage but also empower patients to take an active role in their health, leading to improved independence and satisfaction.

How can CenterWell help?

CenterWell Senior Primary Care is dedicated to supporting older adults with a personalized, team-based approach. Our healthcare providers spend extra time listening to each patient’s concerns and tailoring care plans that address physical, mental and social needs.

CenterWell® also offers pharmacy services and home health services for those recovering at home, ensuring a range of care. By focusing on the whole you, CenterWell strives to help seniors live healthier, happier lives—free from unnecessary reliance on pain medications.

To learn more about holistic pain management options or to find a CenterWell location near you, contact us today or visit our website for more information.

Sources:

• “5 alternative treatments for chronic pain,” UCLA Health, Dec. 4, 2024, last accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
• “8 natural ways to ease chronic pain,” United Healthcare, last accessed Dec. 8, 2025.