How chronic musculoskeletal pain opens the door to opioid dependency

Most large employers are acutely aware of their opioid problem, but what they may be less aware of is the pathway that leads workers to opioid misuse: chronic MSK pain, like joint and back pain.

When people seek relief from chronic MSK pain, they often receive opioid painkillers, either as first-line treatment or after surgery.  Surgery for MSK pain has been shown to play a role in the opioid crisis — both because opioids are often prescribed after MSK surgeries, and because these patients are uniquely susceptible to dependency.¹

Opioid Misuse Can Be Avoided

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines recommend patients first try non-drug therapy — such as exercise, education, and behavioral health — for chronic MSK pain. However, many employees report that they do not have the time or know-how to pursue these treatments.  So what can you do to help? Empower your members to overcome barriers to following evidence-based MSK care by implementing a comprehensive digital care program, like Hinge Health.