Articles tagged with Chronic Pain
A team from TUM has shown that perception, motor impulses, and energy provision occur in the brain simultaneously, not sequentially. The results suggest holistic pain therapy approaches may be beneficial for chronic pain patients.
High-dose opioids are widely prescribed for chronic pain, but can cause self-perpetuating therapy and withdrawal. The Canadian government should recall these formulations to regulate dangerous prescribing practices. This would help fuel the opioid crisis, particularly among patients with addiction.
Researchers found that aqueous extract of soursop leaves can reduce chronic pain, anxiety, and depression associated with fibromyalgia. The study used 60 female rats and plans to conduct clinical trials in humans.
Researchers successfully targeted and enhanced alpha oscillations in the somatosensory cortex, resulting in significant decreases in symptoms associated with chronic lower back pain. The study suggests that non-invasive treatment strategies like transcranial alternating current stimulation may one day be used to treat chronic pain.
Researchers at Brown University have developed an electroencephalography-based test to measure pain levels, providing a more objective approach than the traditional visual analogue scale. The test uses brain activity oscillations to determine pain levels and has shown promise in evaluating medication efficacy in animal models.
A team of scientists at McGill University Health Centre has identified the effective dose of cannabidiol (CBD) for safe pain relief without the risk of addiction or euphoria. The study found that low doses of CBD alleviate both pain and anxiety in animal models of chronic pain, offering a potential alternative to THC and opioids.
The number of Veterans Affairs facilities offering acupuncture has increased from 42% to 88% in the past 7 years, according to a recent study. Acupuncture is being recognized as an effective component of chronic pain management and other areas of care in the VHA.
A CU Denver researcher is conducting clinical research to develop an evidence-based treatment for comorbid pain and opioid addiction. The study aims to reduce substance abuse and pain relapse among patients with chronic pain, using a combination of therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy.
A new study found that pregabalin, a common painkiller, is not effective in controlling chronic pain after traumatic nerve injury. However, it did show promise in relieving post-surgical pain for patients who underwent certain procedures.
A recent study found that women veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain are more likely to use complementary and integrative health (CIH) therapies, such as meditation, yoga, and acupuncture. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 500,000 men and women veterans, showed that rates of CIH use varied by race/ethnicity and age, with...
Researchers found that brain anatomy and psychological traits can predict which patients will respond to sugar pills, resulting in reduced pain and cost savings. The study suggests that clinicians should consider prescribing sugar pills for chronic pain patients, potentially opening up a new field.
A systematic review of 25 clinical trials found little evidence that invasive surgery reduces chronic pain. The study's findings raise concerns about the widespread use of these procedures without rigorous testing.
A study found a clear geographical split in opioid prescribing in England, with the North showing higher rates of chronic pain, anxiety, and poor general health. Opioid use was linked to intensity of pain, educational attainment, and general health, highlighting the need for alternative pain management strategies.
Researchers found that nearly 9% of people who died by suicide in 18 states between 2003 and 2014 had chronic pain documented in their incident records. Chronic pain was associated with risk factors for suicide, but previous studies primarily examined nonfatal suicidal behaviors.
A study of over 1,000 motor vehicle accident survivors found a common genetic variant in the stress response gene FKBP5 linked to increased chronic pain. The researchers discovered that addressing this interaction between the genetic variant and post-traumatic stress may represent a supplemental or alternative treatment option.
A new program, Skills TO Manage Pain (STOMP), aims to address the unique needs of people living with HIV and chronic pain. The NIH-funded trial will evaluate the effectiveness of peer-led group sessions and sponsorship in managing pain.
A UTA professor led a federal advisory group to publish recommendations for preventing acute and chronic pain, highlighting the need for better public education and a precision medicine approach. The report found that psychosocial factors significantly impact pain experience and treatment responses.
A modified botulinum toxin compound Derm-BOT successfully targets and silences pain signals from neurons in the spinal cord of mice, providing long-lasting pain relief. The compound is non-toxic, safe to manufacture, and avoids adverse effects associated with opioids.
A WSU study found that stopping long-term opioid therapy does not make chronic, non-cancer-related pain worse, and in some cases, improves it. The researchers analyzed data from 551 VA patients who discontinued opioid therapy for at least a year, finding that their pain did not worsen but rather remained similar or improved slightly.
A study published in JNeurosci found that activating the BLA-CeA circuit counteracted anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in rats, even without physical pain. This discovery sheds light on the complex relationship between pain and emotion, potentially leading to better treatments for chronic pain patients.
Two studies presented at EULAR 2018 found that sleep problems predict the onset of chronic widespread pain and are associated with chronic pain in adolescents. Sleep difficulties, fatigue, and anxiety were identified as key predictors of chronic pain.
A Kaiser Permanente study of nearly 2,500 patients found that reducing opioid doses for chronic pain did not result in lower patient satisfaction scores. Most encounters resulting in an opioid dose reduction maintained favorable overall satisfaction.
Researchers discovered a naturally occurring protein called apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP) that inhibits inflammatory response underlying chronic pain processing. A single spinal injection of AIBP alleviated chemotherapy pain in mice for two months with no side effects.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological interventions using cognitive behavioral approaches can reduce chronic pain intensity and improve self-efficacy in older adults. However, the study's limitations highlight the need for further research to develop more effective treatments.
Researchers created PainTracker, a pain assessment adaptable to primary care clinics, addressing patient treatment history, goals and expectations, pain intensity and quality-of-life issues. The tool has dramatically transformed doctors' ability to assess and manage chronic pain, with 40-60% of patients having inadequate pain management.
Researchers found that older influential men and educated individuals were more likely to support female genital cutting, highlighting the need for targeted campaigns. The study provides new insights into addressing this practice through culturally sensitive approaches.
A recent study found that Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities have varying care practices for military veterans with chronic pain, leading to inconsistent rates of long-term opioid therapy. Facilities with a wider range of non-opioid treatment options had lower rates of opioid use among veterans.
A new study by the University of Colorado Boulder found that post-surgical opioids can lead to chronic pain in rats for more than three weeks. The researchers discovered that opioids stimulate specialized immune cells in the spinal cord, making them more reactive to pain, and that gradual tapering has no effect on the prolonged pain.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that hunger suppresses chronic pain by targeting specific brain cells. The study discovered that activating a group of 300 neurons responsible for prioritizing hunger over pain significantly reduced inflammatory pain responses, while acute pain responses remained intact.
A new trial suggests that tai chi is a viable alternative to aerobic exercise for managing chronic pain, particularly for those with fibromyalgia. The study found that participants who received tai chi showed significant improvements in symptoms compared to those who exercised aerobically.
Researchers uncover mechanism behind neuropathic pain and develop innovative treatment blocking FLT3 molecule. The treatment shows immediate and long-lasting therapeutic effects in animal subjects, reducing hyperalgesia and allodynia.
A recent study found that a specific manipulation of dopamine receptors impairs chronic pain in male mice but has no effect on females. The researchers suggest that different types of cells drive the development of pain in males and females, leading to the potential for sex-specific pain relief medications.
Researchers found that literacy-adapted group cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and simplified pain education (EDU) significantly improved pain and physical function in patients with chronic pain. The study suggests that CBT can be simplified to improve accessibility without reducing its potency.
Researchers at UIC will study molecular neurobiology of chronic pain and develop new drug treatments for sickle cell disease patients experiencing chronic pain. The funding aims to understand the role of protein kinases in chronic pain and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute found that Jymmin increases pain threshold by up to 50% and reduces anxiety in chronic pain patients. The combination of physical exertion and music triggers endorphin release, making users more tolerant to pain.
A Kenyan pilot study reveals a significant link between chronic pain and glutamate consumption, with participants experiencing improved symptoms after reducing MSG intake. The findings support the potential of dietary changes as an effective low-cost treatment option for developing countries.
Hyperreactive brain networks may contribute to the hypersensitivity of fibromyalgia. Researchers found that patients with fibromyalgia have brain networks primed for rapid responses to minor changes, leading to explosive synchronization.
A study found that genetic variations account for 7-12% of chronic postsurgical pain cases, while clinical risk factors like age and sex contribute to 3-6%. Patients under 65 years old, males, and those with a prior history of chronic pain were at increased risk.
A new study establishes expert consensus on managing concerning behaviors in patients taking opioids for chronic pain, including assessing risk and safety concerns, identifying pain symptoms, and providing patient education. The study also highlights the importance of referral to other pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies.
A study of over 13,000 opioid overdose deaths found that individuals with chronic pain conditions were at the highest risk of death. The study also reveals that many who died had been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, highlighting the importance of early intervention for those at high risk of fatal overdose.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for chronic pain that can reduce reliance on opioids and improve quality of life. By teaching patients coping strategies, CBT helps them manage their pain and behaviors associated with it.
Researchers found widespread disruptions in brain white matter across several regions, linked to higher pain levels and fatigue. The study suggests poor white matter health may contribute to persistent widespread pain experienced by Gulf War veterans.
A new $9 million study will compare two approaches to relieving noncancer chronic pain and reducing opioid use. The study will assess which approach leads to lower or discontinued opioid use and greater pain relief among people who have been using opioids over the long term.
Researchers adapted an Integrative Medical Group Visit approach to address chronic pain, fatigue, and depression in low-income Spanish-speaking Latinos. The program combined complementary and integrative medicine, medical group visits, and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, showing significant benefits.
A study of 690 women found that both short and long surgical incisions for cesarean births are associated with increased pain after delivery. The authors recommend an optimal range of 12-17cm for cesarean incision length to minimize post-delivery pain.
Chronic pain affects 39-85% of people living with HIV, with neuropathic pain being a significant concern. Guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary treatment approach using non-drug options such as cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, and physical therapy.
The Krembil Research Institute and University Health Network release new guidelines discouraging brain imaging as a test for chronic pain. Brain imaging is considered unreliable due to variability between people and within individuals, making it unsuitable as a 'lie detector' test.
A recent study found that almost all antidepressants present significant side effects, but some individuals may better tolerate certain side effects. Personalized medicine is recommended to match chronic pain patients with suitable antidepressant medication, taking into account their individual health profiles and existing health issues.
The scientific evidence on cannabis for chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is inconclusive, with only low-strength evidence suggesting potential benefits. However, researchers found significant risks associated with cannabis use, including increased risk of motor vehicle accidents and psychotic symptoms.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System are conducting a five-year study to test whether medical marijuana reduces opioid use among adults with chronic pain. The study will enroll 250 HIV-positive and HIV-negative adults who use opioids and have received certification for medical marijuana use.
Scientists at McGill University have discovered a new biological pathway involved in pain processing, which could lead to the use of existing cancer drugs as alternatives to opioids. The researchers found that EGFR blockers were as potent analgesics as morphine in mouse models of inflammatory and chronic pain.
A team-based primary care model, TOPCARE, has been shown to decrease prescription opioid use among patients with chronic pain by 40 percent. This study, conducted in four primary care practices, found that TOPCARE patients had lower opioid doses and were more likely to adhere to AAPM guidelines.
Dose reduction in long-term opioid therapy for chronic pain improves pain, function, and quality of life. Multidisciplinary pain programs incorporating behavioral interventions can enhance patient outcomes.
A study of post-surgical patients found that those who received psychological support showed significant reductions in opioid use, depression, and daily disruptions due to pain. Patients learned coping skills grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, promoting mindfulness and acceptance of difficult experiences.
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic conducted the first randomized controlled trial of DBS for neuropathic pain, targeting brain structures related to emotion and behavior. The study showed significant improvements in indices of depression, anxiety, and quality of life, suggesting a potential shift away from analgesia-based treatments.
A study by the American Society of Anesthesiologists found that women who catastrophize, or exaggerate pain, are more likely to take prescribed opioids than men. The study suggests that early treatment for pain catastrophizing may reduce opioid prescriptions for both sexes.
Researchers at UCSF found a significant association between chronic pain and faster declines in memory function and increased risk of dementia in older adults. The study suggests that chronic pain could be related to changes in the brain contributing to cognitive decline.
New research suggests that breastfeeding for over 2 months reduces the risk of chronic post-C-section pain. Mothers who breastfed longer had lower rates of persistent pain compared to those who breastfed for less time. The study also found a significant association between anxiety during breastfeeding and increased risk of chronic pain.
Dr. Michael Stanton-Hicks is a pioneer in the management of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), with extensive contributions to neurostimulation and chronic pain research. He has bridged advances in neurostimulation, taxonomizing CRPS, and improved patient care through his work at the Cleveland Clinic.
A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that approximately half of adults with anxiety or depression also experience chronic pain. Chronic physical conditions were most common among individuals with mood disorders, followed by respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease.