What is an example of a nonpharmacologic approach to pain management?

The appropriate choice here is acupuncture and herbal supplements, as these represent nonpharmacologic approaches to pain management. Nonpharmacologic methods encompass a variety of treatments and modalities that do not rely on medications or drugs to alleviate pain.

Acupuncture, for instance, is an ancient practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and reduce pain. Research has demonstrated its effectiveness for various types of pain, including chronic back pain, arthritis, and headaches. Herbal supplements can also serve as holistic treatments that aim to support the body's natural healing processes without the use of synthetic medications.

In contrast, chiropractic adjustments, although nonpharmacologic in nature, are less representative of the broadly defined category focusing on integrative approaches to pain management when compared to the comprehensive nature of acupuncture and herbal supplements. Options involving over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription opioids are clearly pharmacologic, as they rely on medications to directly affect the body's pain pathways. This distinction is important in understanding various approaches in pain management, especially for individuals seeking alternatives to traditional medications.