Another opinion on non-malignant pain management?

My appreciation of what is happening in the real world of pain management was enriched by my assumption of a consultant role for a review organization. As a tyro, I was amazed by the machinations of the various attending physicians their reluctance to approach 'benign pain' with a conservative and systematic regimen. As my experience with this organization deepened, my awe changed into disappointment. The usual slippery slope from non-steroidal meds to oral synthetic narcotics to injectables and ending with morphine pumps. Hardly ever did I see an effort for a comprehensive chronic pain management program. Occasionally, a psychologist would be consulted for an opinion in isolation! Another option often encountered was the continuation of acupuncture forever. While I'm. on the subject, passive physical modalities, e.g. acupuncture, diathermy, trigger point injections, myofascial releases, and massage are overused and abused. What's wrong with a short trial of treatment to see what works and then spend more time in instruction of the patient in a home program? Apparently, our colleagues have lost the notion that chronic pain needs attention by the patient every day.