Pain management treatments are primarily performed by an interventional pain management specialist, physiatrist, anesthesiologist, orthopedic surgeon, or neurosurgeon, and can include physical or occupational therapy, over-the-counter or prescription medication, neurostimulators, and injections.

For health care professionals, opioid addiction is a complex problem that requires careful physician monitoring because of the dangerous side effects. The Federal government has issued safety warnings and guidance for physicians to address the opioid crisis. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to physicians and health care professionals not to abruptly discontinue opioids in patients who are dependent. The FDA also required label changes to guide prescribers on gradual, individualized tapering.