Introduction to multimodal musculoskeletal treatment models: a viewpoint

Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders are a significant health issue, affecting over 1.7 billion individuals and leading to considerable disability and economic burden. Common treatments for MSK disorders, such as pharmacotherapy and physical therapy, often provide only partial relief because they focus on isolated symptoms rather than the full complexity of the condition. Shifts in healthcare have prompted interest in multimodal treatment approaches that integrate various therapeutic modalities, such as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), acupuncture, physical therapy, and other practices. These approaches acknowledge the multifactorial nature of MSK disorders, addressing not only physical pain but also psychological and functional well-being. This narrative review examines the current individual treatment modalities and their integration into emerging hybrid approaches. It reviews the effectiveness of conventional treatments alongside complementary methods. The discussion evaluates how previously established hybrid models are now being more formally integrated into clinical practice, representing a shift toward structured, multidisciplinary care that leverages the strengths of each modality. Although the individual therapies that comprise these models are well-investigated, there remains a relative lack of high-quality studies specifically evaluating the effectiveness of fully integrated multimodal care models for MSK disorders. This study emphasizes the need for further research, including clinical trials and case studies, to substantiate the benefits of these integrative practices. As healthcare continues to evolve, these integrated models could become a staple in the management of MSK conditions, improving patient quality of life and addressing the complexities of pain from multiple angles. Current MSK treatments are broad but fragmented and compartmentalized lacking integrated multimodal approaches. Hybrid treatment models show promise but lack rigorous scientific validation, requiring further clinical trials and case studies. Integrated care may enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs, yet accessibility barriers limit widespread adoption.