An interesting review on the use of CIM (complementary and integrative medicine) in three conditions with a high incidence of chronic pain: back pain, neck pain, and rheumatoid arthritis, was recently published in the BMJ.

Chronic pain is the leading indication for the use of CIM. The review summarizes research on the mechanisms of action and clinical studies on the efficacy of commonly used CIM modalities such as acupuncture, mind-body system, dietary interventions and fasting, and herbal medicine and nutrients.

The full review can be seen n the BMJ website, which allows a 12-day free trial.