Long term outcomes of interdisciplinary multimodal pain programs

Long term outcomes of seeing a team for chronic back pain

This study was another systematic review which included 51 trials. It looked at the effects of multi-modal programs in the outcomes of pain and disability in the long-term (over 1 year). Multi-modal programs include more than one treatment mode or profession. So instead of an injection or seeing a chiropractor, it looked at implementing a number of different modalities (e.g., nutritional changes, movement intervention, psychological interventions).

Overall multi-modal were effective in the long-term to improve pain management.

There were quite a number of limitations. Firstly the quality of the included trials did vary. Secondly, the actual programs varied greatly. As with all treatments and interventions we always see a wide variety in how people respond - some people will get better, some people don’t respond, and others may even get worse. That’s why we should always consider potential risk involved in any treatment. It is important to note that risk and adverse effects for these programs are often minimal and they are generally considered safe.

Reference:

Cnockaert, E., Musch, K., Elbers, S., Köke, A., Van Oosterwijck, J., Huijnen, I., & Smeets, R. (2026). Longitudinal Outcome Evaluations of Interdisciplinary Multimodal Pain Treatment Programs for Patients With Chronic Primary Musculoskeletal Pain: A Living Systematic Review. European journal of pain (London, England), 30(1), e70174. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.70174

Written by

Samuel Bulten

Exercise Physiologist | Masters in Medicine (Pain Management)

Director, Adapt Movement

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. These blogs are written by Sam Bulten and represent his opinions and insights and are based on his experience and interpretation of the research. As Sam is a human, these opinions and insights are not absolute truths.