What is a common non-pharmacological approach to pain management?

The correct answer is physical therapy, as it is a widely recognized non-pharmacological approach to pain management. Physical therapy involves the use of physical methods, such as exercise, manual therapy, and modalities like heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation, to relieve pain, improve function, and enhance mobility. It emphasizes rehabilitation and often includes educational components to help patients manage their conditions effectively.

While acupuncture and cognitive behavioral therapy are also valid non-pharmacological strategies, physical therapy is particularly focused on physical rehabilitation and is frequently used for a wide range of painful conditions, including musculoskeletal issues, post-surgical recovery, and chronic pain syndromes. Surgery, on the other hand, is an invasive option typically used only when other treatments have not been successful, thereby categorizing it as a pharmacological or interventional approach rather than a non-pharmacological one.