Could yoga and massage replace opioids for chronic pain?

NCT ID NCT05098158

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether offering telehealth sessions of massage, yoga, chiropractic, or physical therapy could help adults with chronic pain reduce their opioid use and feel better. Twenty-one people participated, and researchers tracked changes in pain intensity, pain interference, and mood over time. The goal was to see if these non-drug options are a practical and helpful alternative for managing long-term pain.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

telehealth consultations for massage therapy, yoga therapy, chiropractic, and physical therapies

What this could lead to

If this approach works, it could offer a practical way for people with chronic pain to try non-drug options and possibly reduce their reliance on opioids.

What could go wrong

This was a very small study (21 people) with no comparison group, so results may not apply widely. It only tested short-term effects, and not everyone may find these therapies helpful.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain chronic pain syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Community Health Association of Spokane

    Spokane, Washington, 99201, United States

  • Washington State University College of Nursing

    Spokane, Washington, 99201, United States