Articles tagged with Chronic Pain
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The Cleveland Clinic is developing a stem cell treatment for complex regional pain syndrome, a debilitating disease that causes chronic pain, using human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). The research has long-term potential for providing patients an alternative to addictive opioid treatments.
A world-first study found that chronic pain in stroke survivors can alter body perception, increasing accident risk. Researchers discovered that nearly three times as many stroke survivors with chronic pain experience altered body perception compared to those without.
Persistent pain was common among US adults aged 65+, with declines in physical function (64% persistent pain, 59% intermittent) and well-being (48% persistent pain, 45% intermittent). Cognitive decline was not significantly affected. The study highlights the importance of access to effective treatment for persistent pain in older adults.
A study suggests that abruptly stopping prescribed opioids for chronic pain increases the risk of overdose, particularly among individuals without opioid use disorder. However, tapering opioid therapy is associated with a decreased risk of overdose in those with opioid use disorder who have not received opioid agonist therapy.
A large-scale study of 20,000 older adults found that nearly half who had experienced depression before reported being depressed again, highlighting the pandemic's devastating impact on mental health. Factors associated with depression included low income, chronic pain, and family conflict.
A new study in mice suggests that a short-term high-fat diet can induce hyperalgesic priming and allodynia, even in the absence of injury or preexisting conditions like obesity or diabetes. Researchers found that palmitic acid, a type of saturated fatty acid, binds to nerve cells, causing inflammation and mimicking injury to neurons.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that chronic pain at age 44 is associated with poor mental health outcomes, joblessness, and general health issues in later decades. The research also suggests a link between chronic pain and COVID-19 infection, highlighting the need for attention to chronic pain as a public health concern.
A study found that wearing green eyeglasses reduces pain-related anxiety and decreases opioid use in fibromyalgia patients. The treatment uses specially formulated lenses to filter specific wavelengths of green light, which stimulates pathways in the brain to manage pain.
A new study found that medical cannabis users reported significant improvements in pain management, social functioning, and overall health. The majority of participants were able to stop or reduce their opioid use, with some experiencing a five-fold decrease in hydrocodone prescriptions.
Researchers developed a novel three-core optical fiber sensor to accurately measure both the magnitude and direction of spine curvature. The sensor offers advantages like low cost, high sensitivity, and small size, making it a promising tool for doctors to diagnose problems in spine curvature.
Researchers at UC Davis aim to develop monoclonal antibodies that can bind to specific ion channels in nerve cells, inhibiting pain signal transmission. The goal is to create a monthly, non-addictive pain medication to replace opioids, which can lead to addiction.
A Rutgers study finds CBD improves glucose disposal, burns energy, and enhances bone density in estrogen-deficient mice. The compound also reduces inflammation and boosts beneficial gut bacteria.
Dr. Nathan Hogaboom has won the prestigious Ernest Bors, MD Award for Scientific Development for his pioneering work on regenerative rehabilitation research in spinal cord injury. His award-winning study applied novel principles to treat debilitating shoulder pain in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury.
A University of Oklahoma study found a connection between symptomatic COVID-19 infections and impaired pain modulation. Researchers measured participants' pain thresholds and signals sent from the central nervous system, revealing that those with symptomatic infections had normal but not increased pain modulation.
A newly identified link between chronic pain and lung cancer in mice suggests that old drugs such as clonidine, capsaicin, and fluphenazine may offer new treatments for chronic pain. The study found that blocking the BH4 pathway reduced pain sensitivity and decreased tumor growth in mouse models of KRAS-driven lung cancer.
Patients with long-term neuropathic pain took significantly fewer sick days after spinal cord stimulation treatment, indicating improved life quality. The study suggests that the treatment can increase life expectancy and reduce productivity loss for patients, resulting in cost savings for society.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that combining sound with electrical body stimulation activates the brain's somatosensory cortex, increasing its potential to treat chronic pain. This non-invasive technique has been tested on animals and is planned for human clinical trials in the near future.
A new study found that people who were given the impression of control over music experienced greater pain relief. Those who actively engage with music in their daily life showed even greater benefits. Music complexity was not linked to pain relief, but feeling in control was key.
A new study from the University of South Australia identifies five key approaches for parents and caregivers to discuss everyday pain with young children. Teaching children that they can control their pain and empowering them to actively engage in pain management can promote lifelong helpful pain behaviors and encourage recovery. By he...
McGill University researchers identify ventral striatum as key area in brain decisions between future pain and profit, potentially advancing treatments for disorders characterized by excessive avoidance. The study uses brain scans to monitor activity and machine-learning algorithms to predict participants' choices.
A new study by the University of Exeter recommends using metaphors, images, and poetry to complement traditional medical scales for patients to describe their chronic pain. This approach can improve doctor-patient communication and aid diagnosis or provide better support.
Researchers at University of Queensland have found that native New Zealand stinging tree toxins activate pain receptors differently than Australian counterparts, offering potential for novel pain medication. The study aimed to understand pain pathways and tackle chronic pain effectively without side effects and addiction.
A multidisciplinary team at UVA Health will use deep brain stimulation to treat refractory neuropathic pain, aiming to modulate pain signals from the insula. The study may shed light on the fundamental nature of pain and identify biological indicators for effective treatment.
The 2016 CDC guideline aimed to reduce opioid-related overdose deaths by encouraging clinicians to weigh the benefits and risks of prescribing opioids. Researchers found a significant increase in nonopioid pain medication prescribing rates, coinciding with a drop in opioid prescribing.
Researchers developed a novel approach to modulate astrocyte activity and drive therapeutic circuit reorganization in neuropathic pain. By combining established clinical tools, they successfully alleviated allodynia and dismantled inappropriate neural connections.
A study published in PAIN Reports found that individuals with opioid use disorder (OUd) experience greater central sensitization, leading to worse quality of life. Central sensitization refers to abnormal pain processing in the brain and spinal cord, causing people to suffer more from pain.
A recent study published in PAIN found that mindfulness meditation can reduce pain intensity and unpleasantness by separating pain from the sense of self. Participants who practiced mindfulness reported a significant reduction in pain levels after undergoing painful heat stimuli.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that childhood physical abuse is associated with chronic pain, diabetes, cancer, migraines, arthritis, and heart disease in later life. The trauma can influence both physical and mental health many decades after the event.
A Michigan Medicine study found that people with cerebral palsy and spina bifida are prescribed opioids at a rate up to five times higher than those without the conditions. Chronic pain is the most commonly reported symptom among these individuals, raising concerns over addiction and overdose issues.
A team of scientists discovered a neural mechanism by which sound reduces pain in mice, potentially informing more effective pain therapies. The study found that low-intensity white noise and pleasant music reduced pain sensitivity in mice, while unpleasant music had no effect.
Researchers found that 27.8% of drugs with high abuse potential successfully completed development compared to 4.7% for low-abuse potential drugs. Funding is needed to improve understanding of pain mechanisms and develop non-addictive treatments.
A new study found that 64% of adults who had contact with the child welfare system as children achieve excellent mental health, highlighting resilience and factors associated with flourishing. Chronic pain, major depression, and social isolation hinder optimal mental health.
Research published in JNeurosci found that Gulf War veterans with chronic pain have changes in brain structure involved in pain processing, including larger frontal cortex areas and smaller insular cortices. These structural differences may contribute to the development of effective treatments for Gulf War Illness.
A UC Davis Health study found that patients on stable but higher-dose opioid therapy who had their doses tapered by at least 15% had significantly higher rates of overdose and mental health crisis in the second year after tapering compared to their pre-tapering period. The risks were greatest in patients with the highest baseline doses.
Researchers at University of Calgary have identified a molecule in the nervous system that enhances sensitivity to pain, potentially treating chronic pain with existing anti-cancer drugs. The discovery could offer an alternative to opioid-based pain medication, which can lead to tolerance and addiction.
A review of 25 trials found that synthetic cannabis products with high THC-to-CBD ratios improved chronic pain, but were associated with higher risks of adverse events. In contrast, products with comparable THC-to-CBD ratios showed few benefits in overall functioning.
Research found that stimulating a specific brain circuit relieves pain and reduces defensive behaviors in rats, indicating potential physical and psychological relief. The pathway also increases reward and feeding behavior, suggesting improved emotional state.
A systematic review of cannabis-related products found short-term benefits for neuropathic pain, particularly with dronabinol and nabilone. However, the evidence is limited, with many products not well-studied, and patients should consult their primary care physician before using cannabis-based treatments.
Researchers have developed a new national blueprint to support Australians living with chronic pain, costing the economy $139 billion annually. The 'Listen to me, learn from me' framework prioritizes person-centered care and has nine key focus areas, including pain validation and effective communication.
Researchers from McGill University and Italy found that blocking neutrophils can prolong pain, even with anti-inflammatory drugs. The study suggests reconsidering acute pain treatment, and findings are supported by a large UK analysis.
Researchers have discovered three unique brain subtypes indicating high, medium, and low susceptibility to chronic pain and trauma symptoms in veterans. The study provides an objective measurement of pain and trauma susceptibility and could lead to targeted and personalized treatments.
A multicentre study has proven personal construct therapy as effective as cognitive-behavioural therapy in improving quality of life and symptoms of depression in patients with fibromyalgia. The therapy focused on people's identity and how they see themselves, offering a personalized approach to treatment.
A new study published in Bioelectronic Medicine found that high-frequency spinal cord stimulation (HF-SCS) was more effective at improving perceived pain reduction than low-frequency SCS (LF-SCS). HF-SCS also showed less subsequent use of opioids to mitigate pain.
Chronic pain causes maladaptive emotional states and is often comorbid with psychiatric disorders. Researchers identified the neuronal circuit involved in chronic pain-induced anxiety in mice, finding that restoring its activity attenuates anxiety.
A new nationally representative study found that two in five adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were in excellent mental health. Being married, physically active, free from chronic pain, and having no history of depression or anxiety were associated with complete mental well-being.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that SGLT2 inhibitors reduce hospitalizations and cardiovascular deaths in heart failure patients, regardless of diabetes status. The analysis also warned of increased genital infections associated with treatment.
A new animal study has identified a pain-associated gene expression signature in COVID-19 patients that remains even after the virus clears. The findings, which could lead to new pain treatments for long COVID patients, were published in Experimental Biology.
A large population-based study found chronic low back pain (CLBP) associated with reduced brain volume in pain-processing areas, including the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and amygdala. This association remained significant after adjusting for sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors.
This year's Experimental Biology 2022 meeting features groundbreaking studies on COVID-19 vaccine-associated symptoms in non-menstruating people, a plant compound showing promise for alleviating food allergies, and the potential of omega-3s to boost immunotherapy's cancer-fighting power. Researchers also explore the safety of using CBD...
Researchers discovered a new venom compound in deep-water cone snails, similar to the hormone somatostatin, with possible pharmaceutical applications for treating chronic pain and other human maladies. The study highlights the rich biochemical diversity of animal venoms and the need to explore new compounds.
A study using data science and mathematical models identifies the most suitable rehabilitation method for each patient with osteoarthritis. The research aims to provide personalized treatment recommendations for healthcare professionals, ultimately leading to more effective care for patients.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that state laws regulating opioid prescriptions had no effect on prescribing patterns for commercially insured adults with chronic non-cancer pain. The study suggests that declines in opioid prescribing may be driven by shifting clinical guidance or other factors.
A team of Heidelberg University researchers identified epigenetic factor HDAC4 and organic anion transporter OAT1 as key players in chronic pain development. Their findings revealed that altering gene expression regulates pain processing and sensitivity.
The International Neuromodulation Society 15th World Congress will feature over 470 abstracts and plenary lectures on neuromodulation therapy. Researchers from around the world will gather in Barcelona to discuss scientific theory and clinical applications of neuromodulation therapies.
A recent study found that younger age at the time of menarche is associated with chronic pain in adulthood. Women who experienced their first menstrual period earlier reported higher rates of chronic pain and longer duration of pain. The study suggests that increased estrogen levels may contribute to this association.
A new clinical trial demonstrates that a mindfulness-based therapy, Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE), decreases opioid use and misuse while reducing chronic pain symptoms. MORE significantly improves chronic pain symptoms, decreases opioid craving, and reduces symptoms of depression.
A recent study by researchers from Ritsumeikan University found that athletes with a history of sprained ankle showed reduced gut bacteria diversity compared to those without such a history. This suggests that musculoskeletal injury may have a negative impact on the gut microbiota, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.
A research team developed an algorithm that instantly assesses and adjusts brain stimulation placement using electroencephalography (EEG) feedback. The method can find the optimal stimulation parameters in just 1-2 minutes, potentially improving the efficacy of TMS treatment for brain disorders like chronic pain and depression.
The Commission on the North American Opioid Crisis recommends banning direct marketing to prescribers and curbing industry influence on medical education. The group also suggests standardizing addiction care within health systems and improving access to medication-assisted treatment.
Chronic pain may lead to changed eating behavior and obesity due to altered brain responses to sugar and fat. Brain scans reveal a smaller nucleus accumbens in patients with chronic pain who experience disrupted satiety signals.