In this episode, which has been recorded for Chronic Conditions Month 2021, Dr Peter Bagshaw (Clinical Lead in Dementia and Mental Health, South Gloucestershire CCG) and Dr Rob Hampton (Portfolio GP, Leicester) explore the use of opioids for musculoskeletal pain and examine alternative approaches to treatment. Do opioids have a role in managing musculoskeletal pain? How are guidelines in this area evolving? In what ways is our understanding of psychosomatic contributors improving? What should GPs be looking at in consultations, especially when time is limited?