Articles tagged with Back Pain
The NIH Task Force recommends defining chronic low back pain as back pain lasting at least three months, causing pain on at least half of days over the past six months. The task force also suggests a nine-item cLBP Impact Score to assess how back pain affects patients' lives.
A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that experimental low back pain altered the functional connections between the insula and default mode network, affecting regions involved in cognition and emotion. The findings suggest a crucial role of these brain regions in pain processing.
A third of all work-related disability worldwide is attributed to low back pain, primarily affecting agricultural sector workers and individuals between 35-65. The study analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease 2010 study, indicating that these groups are almost four times more likely to develop low back pain disability.
Low back pain is the leading cause of global disability, affecting nearly one in 10 people worldwide. The condition's prevalence and impact are expected to increase with aging populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
A new study reveals that back surgery can increase average annual earnings by $1,925 compared to non-surgical treatments, as well as reduce missed workdays by three per year. The research suggests that surgery is a cost-effective solution for patients with herniated discs, resulting in savings of over $5,000 over a four-year period.
A study by Beaumont research found that minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion reduces chronic low back pain, hospital stays, complications and scarring. Patients demonstrated high satisfaction rates, being completely pain-free and returning to work and daily activities.
Choosing Wisely Canada aims to reduce harm by promoting evidence-based medical practices, encouraging patients and doctors to 'think twice' before ordering unnecessary tests and treatments. Eight Canadian societies will release their lists in April 2014, featuring evidence-based recommendations for common procedures.
A voxel-based morphometry study reveals regional gray matter volume abnormalities in chronic back pain patients compared to upper back pain patients. Gray matter atrophy affects perception and modulation of chronic pain, with subcortical increases found only in low back pain patients.
New research from Northwestern University predicts chronic back pain after lower back injuries based on abnormalities in brain structure connections. The study found that specific irregularities in the axons of the brain's white matter can trigger chronic pain with high accuracy, offering new hope for early treatment and prevention.
A Johns Hopkins analysis found that epidural steroid injections are only twice as effective as injections of any fluid, including anesthetics and saline, for treating lower back pain. The study suggests that smaller doses of steroids may be just as beneficial, and larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Researchers used brain scans to find an anatomical marker for chronic pain in the brain, which may lead to changes in treatment. The study found a consistent difference in white matter between subjects who recovered and those with persistent pain.
Researchers found a significant rise in discordant treatments, such as advanced imaging and narcotics, while NSAIDs or acetaminophen use declined. This trend may lead to increased healthcare costs and potential disparities in pain management.
A study analyzing national trends from 1999 to 2010 found that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or acetaminophen decreased, while narcotic use increased, despite adherence to clinical guidelines.
A weekly yoga class provided similar lower back pain relief as twice weekly classes in a study of predominantly low-income adults. The results suggest that attending a medically appropriate weekly yoga class could benefit patients interested in trying yoga for lower back pain.
A study published in Spine journal found that telerehabilitation using Skype and video motion analysis software has good accuracy compared to face-to-face examinations for assessing patients with low back pain. The system showed consistent results for the same therapist at different times and for assessment by independent therapists.
A study by Patricia de Cocq and colleagues found that 'rising trot' reduces the force exerted on a horse's back, decreasing the risk of injury. By analyzing data from experienced dressage riders using both techniques, they showed that rising trot significantly reduced the load on horses' backs.
A new study suggests that bone-marrow grafts may be effective in treating low-back pain, with patients experiencing significant improvements in pain relief and activity tolerance. The procedure involves injecting a concentrated form of bone-marrow cellular aspirate into affected discs.
Researchers investigated the use of bone-marrow grafts to treat low-back pain. The study found that some patients experienced complete pain relief after treatment, while others showed no improvement.
A study found that Spanish nurses with training in acute health problems of low complexity provided care of comparable quality to general practitioners. Nurses successfully solved 86.3% of cases, including burns and injuries, but struggled with low back pain and mild respiratory symptoms.
A Tel Aviv University researcher finds that a simple home aerobic program is as effective as clinical therapy in treating lower back pain. The program involves walking two to three times a week for 20-40 minutes and has the added advantage of encouraging patients to follow a healthier lifestyle.
Researchers used brain imaging technique to examine patterns of brain connectivity in adults with chronic back pain and without. They found specific brain regions became less connected, predicting worsening chronic pain, suggesting potential biomarker for chronic pain perception.
Researchers have developed a computer algorithm that accurately predicts lower back pain in patients 76% of the time using brain scans. The study suggests structural changes in gray matter are associated with chronic lower back pain and may reflect pathology within the brain.
Patients with severe back pain who quit smoking reported less pain than those who continued to smoke, according to a recent study. The study found that quitting smoking led to significant improvements in pain levels and disability indexes for nonsmokers.
A recent study by Henry Ford Hospital found that steroid injections used to treat back pain can lead to significant bone density loss in postmenopausal women. The research highlights the need for caution when prescribing epidural steroids for patients at risk of bone fragility.
Researchers found that prophylactic use of probiotics significantly reduces the incidence of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) in adults and children taking antibiotics. In contrast, epidural corticosteroid injections offer only short-term relief from sciatica pain and disability for patients with this condition.
Guidelines provide three categories for initial patient evaluation and order sets for follow-up visits, aiming to reduce inappropriate imaging utilization, steroid and narcotic use, and invasive procedures. The approach is based on the best available evidence to improve patient care.
Researchers at King's College London have identified a gene linked to age-related degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the spine, a common cause of lower back pain. The largest study to date has revealed an association with the PARK2 gene.
A 12-week group yoga intervention programme has been found to be likely to provide a cost-effective treatment for patients with chronic or recurrent low back pain. The study, led by the University of York, shows that the programme is associated with fewer days off work and reduced healthcare costs.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that people with physical health problems are three times more likely to seek mental health care. The study highlights the need for better-coordinated care between physical and mental health providers.
A Northwestern University study found that chronic pain develops when two brain sections communicate excessively, increasing the likelihood of chronic pain. Researchers predicted with 85% accuracy which participants would develop chronic pain based on brain scan data.
A new biomedical device aims to alleviate chronic back pain by duplicating the natural motion of the spine. Developed by BYU engineers and licensed to Crocker Spinal Technologies, the artificial disc has shown promise in studies and is set to begin international sales distribution as early as next year.
A study found that early physical therapist treatment for low back pain was associated with reduced risk of subsequent healthcare utilization and lower overall healthcare costs. Patients who received early care from a physical therapist had lower rates of surgery, injections, and opioid use, as well as reduced medical costs.
A large study published in CMAJ found that back pain symptoms improve significantly in the first six weeks, but pain and disability may persist even after one year. Patients with acute low-back pain experience a 90% reduction in pain intensity at one year, while those with persistent low-back pain see only a 50% improvement.
A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that combining CAM therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage with conventional care significantly improves outcomes for patients with lower back pain. This integrated approach shows promise as a multidisciplinary team-based model of care.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released a tip sheet on screening and treatment of chronic kidney disease, concluding that regular screening offers no clear benefits. In contrast, preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV infection among high-risk men who have sex with men (MSM). The ACP also notes that...
Research found that over half of school children carry rucksacks weighing 10% or more of their body weight, increasing the risk of back problems. Girls are more susceptible to back issues, which worsen with age. Experts advise parents and teachers to promote healthy backpacking habits.
Researchers at the Catholic University of Rome found that high concentrations of NF-kB cause degeneration of intervertebral discs, leading to chronic low back pain. They developed an experimental drug, NBD peptide, to inhibit NF-kB and tested its success in mice.
A recent trial published in BMC Medicine suggests that rest and exercise are equally effective in alleviating lower back pain due to Modic changes. The study found no significant difference in pain reduction between the two groups after a 10-week trial and one-year follow-up.
A new study found that most practitioners believe work factors can cause or exacerbate LBP, and recommend a 'short break from work' to allow healing. Despite guidelines encouraging maintaining people at work during episodes of back pain, many clinicians hold contradictory beliefs that influence their clinical decisions.
A study led by the University of York found that a specially-designed 12-week yoga programme improved back function and confidence in people with chronic lower back pain. After nine months, participants continued to experience benefits, including increased ability to perform daily activities.
A 12-week yoga program improved back function in patients with chronic or recurrent low back pain, but had similar effects on back pain and general health. The American College of Physicians also recommends assessing VTE risk and prescribing heparin to prevent venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients.
A study found yoga classes to be more effective in reducing symptoms and improving function for patients with chronic low back pain compared to a self-care book. Stretching exercises also showed moderate benefits in reducing back pain, suggesting that the mental component of yoga may not be the primary factor in its effectiveness.
A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that yoga and intensive stretching classes both showed significant improvements in back-related function and symptoms for adults with chronic low back pain. Both forms of exercise were effective in reducing pain medication use, with benefits lasting at least six months.
A new stratified approach to managing back pain in primary care has been shown to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The trial found that this tailored approach can significantly reduce disability scores, fear, depression, and improved general health compared to conventional care.
Patients with acute low back pain who were advised to stay active despite the pain fared better in recovery and mental health compared to those told to adjust their activity in line with their pain. This study found that staying active can help patients recover more quickly and manage depression.
Researchers used a new imaging technique to study brain activity in patients with chronic low back pain, finding increased activity in specific brain regions during worsening pain episodes. The study provides insights into the basic physiology of pain processing and may lead to tailored therapies.
Research from Tel Aviv University finds that genetics play a key role in lower back pain and disc degeneration, with different genetic factors causing both conditions. The study suggests that identifying these genetic factors could lead to more effective treatment options.
A randomized controlled trial found that both structural and relaxation massage types helped alleviate chronic low back pain and improve function. Massage patients experienced significant reductions in pain, improved functioning, and increased activity compared to those with usual care.
The National Physicians Alliance recommends limiting antibiotic prescribing, avoiding imaging for low back pain, and not ordering cardiac screening tests in low-risk patients. The suggestions aim to make primary care more affordable and efficient while improving patient health.
A team of researchers from the University of Manchester has made a breakthrough in developing an injectable gel to permanently replace the workings of the intervertebral disc, which is estimated to affect 80% of people at some point in their lives.
The American College of Physicians recommends limiting routine imaging for low back pain due to lack of evidence on its health benefits, recommending only in higher-risk patients. ACP aims to preserve high-value, high-quality care by controlling unsustainable healthcare costs.
Researchers from Michigan State University are investigating the relationship between cesarean-section deliveries and degenerative spondylolisthesis, a condition causing lower back pain and nerve damage in women. The study aims to quantify muscle function objectively and document variables in women with and without the disease.
A new study published in Spine found that patients who received early physical therapy after an episode of low back pain were less likely to receive epidural steroid injections, lumbar surgery, and frequent physician visits. This suggests that prompt access to physical therapy can lead to improved outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
A new report highlights the severe impact of spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis, with millions at risk of further fractures and long-term disability. Experts call for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent devastating consequences.
A new study found that individuals with chronic back pain who experienced some lifetime adversity reported less physical impairment and disability. The researchers speculate that this may be due to the development of psychological and social resources that help tolerate adversity.
A new study finds that patients with arthritic back pain can experience significant pain relief after radiofrequency denervation without diagnostic nerve blocks. The procedure is safer and more cost-effective, allowing patients to return to work sooner.
A new study published in Pain found that patients' attitudes and beliefs about chronic lower-back pain significantly affect their disability levels. The study highlights the importance of health literacy in managing CLBP, with individuals with high disability citing anatomical reasons for their pain experience.
A randomized controlled trial found that patients with chronic low-back pain and degenerative lumbar osteoarthritis who took glucosamine for six months showed no significant difference in pain-related disability, pain, or quality of life compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests that further research is needed to det...
A literature review suggests that surgery is not the first line of treatment for low back pain caused by herniated disks, and that alternative options such as physical therapy and medications can provide relief. The review also found that patients with larger herniations are more likely to experience a recurrence of pain after surgery.
Research reveals chronic pain changes brain activity in response to acute pain, predicting worsening of ongoing back pain. The nucleus accumbens plays a key role in this process, with altered activity patterns in patients compared to healthy controls.