Chronic Pain

Study validates accuracy of depression screening for people with chronic pain

Ultrasound has potential to alter how the brain responds to pain

Sanford Burnham Prebys awarded $3.9 million NIH grant to develop first-in-class non-opioid pain treatment

A multi-institutional team led by Sanford Burnham Prebys aims to develop a non-opioid pain therapeutic using lead molecule SBI-810. The effort, funded by a $3.9 million NIH grant, seeks to optimize the compound into a drug that could provide effective pain relief without addiction risks.

JMIR report: Can AI and wearables fix the "broken" pain scale?

The article discusses how emerging digital tools are capturing the biopsychosocial reality of chronic pain. Digital tools such as wearables, AI-driven trackers, and ecological momentary assessments mitigate recall bias by recording data in real-time, providing a more holistic picture of the patient's journey.

Risk of drug poisoning if gabapentinoid painkillers taken with other medications

A new study by University College London found that gabapentinoids, prescribed for chronic pain, double the risk of hospitalization for drug poisoning when combined with benzodiazepines or opioids. The risk persists even after starting gabapentinoid treatment, suggesting they may not be an effective solution to reduce poisoning risks.

First “protein map” of neurons that initiate pain

Researchers have created a high-resolution molecular map of specific sensory neurons that trigger pain, revealing two subtypes of nociceptors with distinct functional components. The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of chronic inflammatory pain and identifies potential new drug targets using Deep Visual Proteomics.

Male gender, marriage, and social support linked to flourishing mental health for older Canadians

A new study found that male, married Canadians with social support, healthy habits, and excellent health are more likely to experience high levels of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Social support was a key factor associated with flourishing mental health among older adults.

Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage

A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.

Study: Long-term opioid prescribing fell, but millions still receive extended opioid therapy

A recent study found a decline in long-term opioid prescribing in the US between 2015 and 2023, with a 24.3% decrease in patients receiving extended therapy. However, approximately 4.2 million US patients still received opioids for 90 days or longer in 2023, indicating the need for improved treatment models for chronic pain management.

Newly identified chronic pain circuit offers pathways to new treatments

Researchers have mapped a brain circuit specific to chronic pain, suggesting a promising route to treatment. Silencing this circuit eased chronic pain while preserving acute pain responses in mice. The discovery raises the possibility of developing drugs that target this circuit to ease chronic pain without impacting acute pain.

TENS improves pain and fatigue in fibromyalgia

A new study led by University of Iowa Health Care researchers found that TENS reduced movement-evoked pain and fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia, with effects lasting for at least six months. The treatment was also shown to be safe, effective, inexpensive, and readily available.

Surgery residents fall short in key areas of pain knowledge, Concordia study finds

A Concordia-led study reveals that many Canadian surgery residents scored below the threshold of adequate pain knowledge, with limited grasp of the biopsychosocial model and unpreparedness to treat pain in children. This highlights the need for improved medical training to address this critical gap.

Why chronic pain leads to depression for some but not others

Research suggests that persistent pain drives progressive changes in the hippocampus, a brain region involved in emotional regulation. This can shape whether people develop depression or remain emotionally resilient. The study's findings challenge the idea that depression is an inevitable consequence of long-term pain.

People's opinions can shape how negative experiences feel

A new study from Dartmouth College finds that social information can significantly impact how people experience negative events, including physical pain and mentally demanding tasks. When others describe an experience as painful, individuals tend to feel it that way, even when the actual experience is low in intensity.

Discovering the “brain fingerprints” of chronic pain

A team of researchers has developed a method to decode fluctuations in spontaneous pain intensity in individuals with chronic pain using extensively sampled functional MRI data. The study found that neural patterns underlying pain differ markedly between individuals, highlighting the importance of individualized brain-based biomarkers.

Why does chronic back pain make everyday sounds feel harsher? Brain imaging study points to a treatable cause

A new study from CU Anschutz links chronic back pain to heightened brain responses to everyday sounds and finds that Pain Reprocessing Therapy can improve sensory amplification. The research found specific brain changes associated with sound hypersensitivity, which can be treated with psychological therapy.

Major NIH grant renewal fuels next phase of chronic pain research at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry

The UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry has secured a $9 million NIH grant to develop a targeted, non-opioid treatment for chronic pain associated with muscle and joint dysfunction. Researchers will map the biology of facial pain, identify specialized neurons, and analyze gene expression changes to design effective treatments.

Key proteins found to drive abnormal bone growth after injury

A study reveals that two key proteins, TSP1 and TSP2, play a central role in shaping the healing environment after injury, leading to abnormal bone growth. The findings suggest targeting these proteins may reduce harmful bone formation without interfering with healthy development.

Blocking pain at the source: Hormone therapy rewires nerve signals in aging spines

Researchers found that hormone treatment reduces abnormal nerve invasion and improves chronic back pain by limiting nerve growth inside damaged spinal tissue. The study suggests that parathyroid hormone can reverse the process by activating natural signals.

What causes chronic pain? New study identifies key culprit in the brain

Researchers have discovered a neural circuit hidden in an understudied region of the brain plays a critical role in turning temporary pain into chronic pain. Silencing this pathway can prevent or halt chronic pain, offering new hope for treating severe chronic pain with injections or infusions targeting specific brain cells.

No clear evidence that cannabis-based medicines relieve chronic nerve pain

An updated Cochrane review of 21 clinical trials involving over 2,100 adults found no high-quality evidence that cannabis-based medicines reduce neuropathic pain more than placebo. Small improvements were reported by patients using products with both THC and CBD, but these changes were not clinically meaningful.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome triggers migraines in majority of patients

A new study from Murdoch University found that 66% of participants with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) experienced migraines that started or worsened after CRPS onset. This research highlights the connection between CRPS and migraine, suggesting a possible common cause for both conditions.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant advancements in cancer treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of immunotherapy before and after surgery in improving lung cancer patient outcomes. Additionally, a new study shows promise in using CAR T cell therapy to treat large B-cell lymphoma, reducing relapse rates.

One in 14 patients having day case surgery have new or worse chronic pain 3 months after their operation

Two new studies found that around 1 in 8 day-case surgery patients are admitted to hospital for complications, while 1 in 14 develop chronic pain at the operative site. Chronic post-surgical pain is more common in certain procedures and among patients with medical problems, with orthopaedic and breast surgeries showing higher rates.

Back pain linked to worse sleep years later in men over 65, according to study

A recent study found that back pain can predict sleep problems years later in men over 65, leading to a 12% to 25% increase in sleep issues. Men with back pain are more likely to experience poor sleep quality and daytime sleepiness.

Cannabis products with more THC slightly reduce pain but cause more side effects

A systematic evidence review finds that cannabis products with higher levels of THC provide short-term pain relief, but at the cost of increased side effects. CBD-based products, on the other hand, show almost no benefit in reducing pain.

Do hormones explain why women experience more gut pain?

Estrogen activates previously unknown pathways in the colon, triggering pain and increasing sensitivity to certain foods. This explains why women are more likely to suffer from IBS and provides potential new ways to treat the condition.

Rural-urban differences in the prevalence of chronic pain among adult cancer survivors

Chronic pain prevalence differs between rural and urban adult cancer survivors, with rural areas showing higher rates despite having fewer resources. Limited access to pain specialists and insurance challenges contribute to these disparities.

New BrainHealth research reveals tradeoffs on sleep with cannabis use for chronic pain

Research reveals cannabis use may promote deep, restorative sleep critical for physical restoration and immune function, but at the cost of reduced emotional regulation and memory integration. Chronic cannabis users experience diminishing benefits as use increases.

Medical cannabis and opioid receipt among adults with chronic pain

A cohort study found that participation in New York's medical cannabis program was associated with lower rates of opioid prescription during a 18-month follow-up. The study controlled for unregulated cannabis use, suggesting that medical cannabis may be an effective alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain.

Medical cannabis program reduces opioid use

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that adults with chronic pain who used medical cannabis had a 22% reduction in opioid use. The study, led by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, suggests that supervised use of medical cannabis can relieve chronic pain and reduce reliance on prescription opioids.

Emergency departments fall short on delivering timely treatment for sickle cell pain

A recent study found that only one-third of patients with sickle cell disease received guideline-adherent pain treatment within the first hour at emergency departments. The study analyzed data from over 398,000 visits and found disparities in treatment based on age, sex, and insurance status.

High-resolution GlyT2 structures point to non-opioid analgesic options

Researchers have identified a previously unknown sodium-binding site on GlyT2, which supplies the energetic drive required for glycine transport. The study also uncovered a distinctive allosteric binding pocket for lipid-based inhibitors, providing a foundation for rational design of improved analgesics.

Your pain meds' side effects may be masquerading as heart failure

Researchers tracked 120 older veterans taking gabapentinoids and loop diuretics, finding that only 4 doctors correctly identified the gabapentinoids as the cause of leg swelling. The study highlights the dangers of 'prescribing cascades' and emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and alternative treatment options.

UT Health San Antonio pilot study explores ear acupressure for chronic pain relief in dementia care

Researchers are investigating training caregivers on ear acupressure to help alleviate chronic pain in people with dementia. The one-year initiative aims to recruit 30-40 participants, plus caregivers, and assess the feasibility and acceptability of this non-pharmacological technique.

Our bodies 'talk,’ listen carefully: College of Public Health researcher helps chronic pain sufferers reduce opioid misuse

Researchers found that mindfulness-based program MORE increased interoceptive awareness, reducing the risk of prescription opioid misuse in individuals with chronic pain. Participants who demonstrated lower trust in their body signals and difficulty regulating attention to bodily sensations were at higher risk for opioid misuse.

Chronic pain may increase the risk of high blood pressure in adults

A new study published in the Hypertension Journal found that chronic pain in adults may increase their risk of developing high blood pressure, with depression playing a significant role. The study analyzed data from over 200,000 adults and found that widespread pain was associated with a higher risk of high blood pressure.

Headache disorders affect 3 billion people worldwide—nearly one in every three people, ranking sixth for health loss in 2023

Headache disorders affect nearly one in every three people, causing significant disability and health loss. Migraine and medication overuse drive most of the global burden, emphasizing the need for improved prevention, management, and access to care.

Carnegie Mellon researchers bring sickle cell disease pain into focus

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University's Wood Neuro Research Group uses advanced brain imaging and a digital visualization tool to better understand how pain is processed in the brain for people with sickle cell disease. The team found that patients had reduced connectivity across key brain networks linked to pain perception, partic...

Research hints at the potential of pain relief with CBD

Researchers have discovered a novel delivery method for CBD that effectively targets the brain's nerve cells, providing pain relief without adverse side effects. The study found that CBD-IN, a nano-micelle formulation of CBD, calms overactive nerve circuits in the areas responsible for sensing touch and pain.

Personalised care key to easing pain for people with Parkinson’s

New research from the University of South Australia highlights the need for personalized, multidisciplinary and empathetic care for people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that gaps in support lead many individuals to rely on trial-and-error approaches to manage their pain, resulting in reduced quality of life.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center identified distinct cellular microenvironments in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma tumors, providing a framework to develop therapies that engage the patient's immune system. Additionally, a study found widespread misbeliefs about the cancer risks of alcohol among Americans, highlighting the need f...

Reduction in costs of fentanyl production found to have long-term implications for illegal opioid supply industry

The analysis explores how reduced fentanyl production costs affect the structure and conduct of the illegal opioid supply industry. It also assesses potential consequences for drug law enforcement organizations, finding modest declines in expenditures and income-generating crime.

Researchers find potential link between chronic pain, immune condition

A study led by Julie Pilitsis, MD, PhD, found a possible connection between chronic pain and eosinophilia, a white blood cell condition, in patients undergoing spinal cord stimulation or implanted pain medicine pumps. The study suggests that eosinophilia may be an immune biomarker for chronic pain.

It’s all in your head: Select neurons in the brainstem may hold the key to treating chronic pain

Researchers have identified a group of cells called Y1 receptor-expressing neurons in the brainstem's lateral parabrachial nucleus as critical for regulating long-term pain states. These neurons integrate information about hunger, fear and thirst, allowing pain signals to be modulated by other brain circuits signaling more urgent needs.

Two in three people with chronic pain turn to comfort eating

A new study found that 2/3 people with chronic pain reach for comfort foods to cope, offering pleasure, distraction, and relief from negative emotions. However, this can lead to weight gain, which worsens pain and increases health risks.

Widely prescribed opioid painkiller tramadol not that effective for easing chronic pain

A pooled data analysis found tramadol to be ineffective in easing chronic pain, with a small and clinically insignificant effect. The use of tramadol was also associated with an increased risk of serious side effects, including heart disease and certain cancers.

Microbiome and nanoparticle discoveries hold promise for treating gut pain

Researchers discovered a new enzyme produced by Bacteroides fragilis that activates pain signaling. The enzyme is targeted with nanoparticles to develop treatments for gut pain in inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. The studies aim to restore balance between good and bad bacteria to reduce symptoms.

Back pain tied to higher rates of common diseases

Chronic back pain is associated with a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, depression, and other conditions. A study found that people with back pain are more likely to report severe activity limitations due to comorbidities.

Healthy habits can make your brain age more slowly, study finds

A new study found that healthy habits such as optimism, good sleep, and social support are strongly linked to healthier brains. Study participants who reported the most protective factors had brains eight years younger than their chronological age, and their brains aged more slowly over time.

In quest for better NSAIDs, researchers decouple inflammation from pain

Scientists at NYU Pain Research Center identified the EP2 receptor as the main cause of inflammatory pain but not inflammation. Blocking this receptor silenced pain responses without affecting inflammation, offering a new strategy for treating prostaglandin-mediated pain.

Large study from University Hospitals Connor Whole Health finds certain music therapy interventions may be more beneficial for pain

A large study from University Hospitals Connor Whole Health found that recreative and music-assisted relaxation/imagery interventions were 37% and 48% more likely to reduce pain intensity than receptive only interventions. Longer sessions and explicit pain management goals also contributed to increased pain reduction.

How does the brain differentiate painful from non-painful touch?

Salk scientists pinpoint gracile nucleus as brain area responsible for differentiating between painful and non-painful touch, with dysfunction leading to chronic pain. Altered neuronal activity in the dorsal column nuclei drives mechanical allodynia, causing the brain to misinterpret innocuous light touch as painful.

FAU study pinpoints single drug therapy for PTSD, pain, and alcohol misuse

Researchers identified a promising treatment for PTSD, chronic pain, and alcohol misuse in rats. The study found that PPL-138 selectively reduced anxiety-like behavior, pain responses, and alcohol consumption in those with trauma-related anxiety.

Study links chronic sickle cell pain to gut microbial imbalance

Researchers at UT Dallas discovered a connection between chronic sickle cell disease pain and the bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract. By transplanting beneficial bacteria into mice with sickle cell disease, they alleviated chronic pain, highlighting the role of gut microbiomes in driving chronic pain.

$4.5M NIDA grant will fund research to improve methadone treatment quality

A new clinical trial is testing an intervention to reduce staff stress and improve methadone treatment retention for opioid use disorder. The four-year study will examine the effectiveness of a multi-modal intervention in reducing work-related trauma and traumatic stress symptoms among methadone treatment staff.

Could a local anesthetic that doesn’t impair motor function be within reach?

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital report an alternative local anesthetic, 2',6'-pipecolylxylidine (PPX), that selectively blocks pain while leaving motor function intact. PPX has been found to be less toxic than conventional anesthetics and may enable longer-lasting pain relief.

Acupuncture for chronic low back pain in older adults

A randomized clinical trial found that acupuncture provided greater improvements in back pain-related disability compared to usual medical care alone. The study suggests that acupuncture needling is an effective and safe treatment option for older adults with chronic low back pain.

Acupuncture treatment improves disabling effects of chronic low back pain in older adults

A study funded by the NIH found that acupuncture treatment significantly improved physical function and reduced pain in older adults with chronic low back pain, compared to usual medical care. The study showed a modest but positive effect of acupuncture on disability scores, anxiety symptoms, and pain intensity.

Beyond weight loss: How healthy eating cuts chronic pain

Researchers found that improving diet quality reduced chronic musculoskeletal pain from 50% to 24%, while also decreasing pain-related quality of life. The study suggests that adopting a healthier diet may lead to meaningful reductions in pain and improve overall wellbeing.