Pain

Study validates accuracy of depression screening for people with chronic pain

Ultrasound has potential to alter how the brain responds to pain

Icing injuries may slow recovery and prolong pain, study finds

Edible cannabis and pain, sleep, and mental health management in older adults

TBI survivors turn to psychedelics for symptom relief

A new study found that nearly 1,200 TBI respondents used psychedelics to treat or manage physical health conditions, with 208 participants using them to manage brain injury-related symptoms. Researchers reported a 90% self-reported symptom improvement rate.

Opioids for dental pain still more common in US

A new study shows that while dental opioid prescription fills in the US have dropped by 27% since 2021, the rate remains higher than in other developed countries and the US territory of Puerto Rico. The study suggests that some US dentists are still overprescribing opioids.

ADHD and chronic pain, an overlooked connection

A study published in Scientific Reports reveals a connection between ADHD-related traits and chronic pain, highlighting the importance of addressing ADHD in pain management. The research suggests that treating ADHD may help reduce chronic pain severity.

Study of Ukrainian war amputees finds most recover from pain and trauma

A longitudinal study of 156 Ukrainian amputees found that most experience steady improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression over time. The study revealed distinct patterns of post-amputation pain, with phantom limb pain linked to psychological distress and residual limb pain linked to depression.

Mumsnet posts reveal women gaslit over womb procedure pain

A study analyzing Mumsnet posts reveals thousands of women were dismissed and disbelieved about their pain during routine womb examinations. The research highlights five recurring problems in hysteroscopy procedures, including inadequate information, unequal care standards, and inconsistent pain relief.

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.

Neurobiologists hack brain circuits tied to placebo pain relief

Neurobiologists have identified the brain circuitry responsible for placebo pain relief, revealing a site where endogenous opioid peptides drive pain relief. The study offers hope for using expectancy-driven placebo effects as a substitute for painkillers and developing protocols to produce placebo pain resilience in humans.

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.

University of Calgary-led study shows link between migraine genetics and post-concussion headaches in kids

A University of Calgary-led study found that children with genes predisposing to migraine are at higher risk of developing more severe headaches after a concussion. The research identified specific genetic mutations and family history of migraine as associated 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.

One in ten experience facial pain – New method can reveal the cost

A new international research collaboration has developed lay descriptions to visualize the global burden of disease caused by facial pain. Facial pain affects everyday activities like eating and speaking, and is often long-lasting.

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.

US trends in long-term opioid therapy

Long-term opioid therapy prescription rates declined in the US from 2015 to 2023, despite a growing population of older adults receiving these treatments. Approximately 4-5 million patients were prescribed long-term opioids in 2023, with Medicare covering a larger proportion, raising concerns about safety.

Social support, sleep, and pain management linked to mental health in later life

A national Canadian study found that older adults who are socially connected, physically healthy, and spiritually engaged are significantly more likely to experience complete mental health. Social support emerged as one of the strongest predictors, doubling the odds of achieving complete mental health.

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.

NIH researchers discover pain-relieving drug with minimal addictive properties

Researchers at NIH have identified a novel opioid compound that shows potential as a therapy for both pain and opioid use disorder. The new drug, called DFNZ, has high pain-relieving effects without causing respiratory depression or addiction.

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.

Gut health supplement relieves arthritis pain, finds new study

A new study found that a prebiotic fibre supplement reduced pain, improved grip strength, and lowered pain sensitivity in people with knee osteoarthritis. The supplement, inulin, improved grip strength and reduced pain sensitivity, measures linked to how the nervous system processes pain.

Researcher finds evidence supporting sucrose can help manage painful procedures in infants

A recent Cochrane review found that administering sucrose to infants undergoing venepuncture is an effective and safe way to manage pain. The study recommends using sucrose as a first-line pain management strategy before the procedure, especially when other options like skin-to-skin contact or breastfeeding are not available.

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.

Sugar comforts newborn babies during painful procedures

A new Cochrane review found that sucrose can effectively reduce pain in newborn babies during painful procedures like venepuncture. The study examined 29 clinical trials involving over 2,700 babies and showed that a small amount of sucrose given before the procedure significantly reduces pain when combined with non-nutritive sucking.

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.

Why chronic pain lasts longer in women: Immune cells offer clues

Researchers at Michigan State University found that female immune cells are less active, leading to delayed recovery from chronic pain. The study suggests that immune cells can be manipulated to produce signals that calm pain, paving the way for non-opioid treatments.

Incidental rotator cuff abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging

A population-based study reveals that rotator cuff abnormalities are common after age 40 and often represent normal age-related changes. The findings challenge the clinical value of routine imaging for atraumatic shoulder pain, questioning the need for regular scans in this demographic.

Study suggests migraine may be overlooked in women with enlarged breast tissue

A small observational study found that most women with macromastia who experienced frequent headaches screened positive for migraine rather than tension-type headache. After surgery, participants reported fewer and less severe headaches, with improvements lasting over a year.

FAU study: Tiny worm offers clues to combat chemotherapy neurotoxicity

Researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans to model chemotherapy-induced neurological dysfunction and tested two compounds for improved recovery. Both sildenafil citrate and Resveramorph-3 significantly reduced seizure-like behaviors and duration, suggesting their potential as therapeutic candidates.

UT Health San Antonio researchers lead American Heart Association scientific statement on early recognition, intervention for post-stroke spasticity

Post-stroke spasticity affects an estimated 30-80% of stroke survivors, causing abnormal muscle tightness and involuntary spasms. Earlier diagnosis and timely intervention may improve functional outcomes and reduce long-term disability, according to the new scientific statement.

Scientists build a "Rosetta Stone" to decode chronic pain neurons

Researchers from CAMH and RWTH Aachen deciphered the molecular signature of sleeping nociceptors, a type of pain-sensing nerve cell that drives chronic pain. The findings reveal specific molecular hallmarks, including OSMR and Nav1.9, which could lead to the development of targeted therapies.

Shared process underlies oral cancer pain and opioid tolerance

Research suggests that blocking growth factor receptor signaling using cancer drugs may overcome two challenges: managing oral cancer pain and preventing opioid tolerance. This approach could control cancer while addressing pain through a non-opioid, biologically rational approach.

Acupuncture for migraine without aura and connection-based efficacy prediction

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that acupuncture is effective in reducing migraine without aura pain and improving functionality. The research identified specific brain network connections that predict treatment outcomes, enabling a personalized approach to pain management.

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.

Suppressing postoperative inflammation may prolong pain

A recent study from Michigan State University found that blocking postoperative inflammation may actually delay recovery and prolong pain. The researchers used a mouse model to investigate the role of TNF-α signaling in postoperative pain resolution.

Yoga for opioid withdrawal and autonomic regulation

This randomized clinical trial found yoga to significantly accelerate opioid withdrawal recovery and improve autonomic regulation, anxiety, sleep, and pain. The study supports the integration of yoga into withdrawal protocols as a neurobiologically informed intervention addressing core regulatory processes.

Gene therapy ‘switch’ may offer non-addictive pain relief

A new gene therapy has been discovered that targets only pain signals while leaving the rest of the brain untouched, providing hope for people with chronic pain. The therapy eliminates the risk of addiction from narcotics treatments, a breakthrough that could alleviate suffering for over 50 million Americans.

Restoring mitochondria shows promise for treating chronic nerve pain

Duke researchers successfully restored mitochondria in nerve cells, significantly reducing pain tied to diabetic neuropathy and chemotherapy-induced nerve damage. The approach could fix what the team sees as the root problem – restoring energy flow that keeps nerve cells healthy and resilient.

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.

Stress among older adults linked to worse surgery recovery

A new study from Duke University found that even mild stress before surgery can lead to delirium, uncontrolled pain, and longer hospital stays in older adults. Over 40% of patients reported moderate to high distress levels similar to those with advanced cancer.

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.

Combined oral contraceptive use among people with migraine with aura persists, despite cautions

A new study found that a sizable minority of people with migraine with aura still receive estrogen-containing birth control pills and hormone therapy, despite treatment contraindications. The study highlights the need for updated research on stroke risks associated with these medications among people with this type of migraine.

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.

Why are abstinent smokers more sensitive to pain?

Researchers found that abstinent smokers have altered brain activity linked to increased pain sensitivity and a need for more postoperative pain relief. The study suggests that nicotine withdrawal affects specific brain regions, leading to higher requirements for pain management in surgery.

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.

Most people struggle to spot pain in horses - study

Research found that most people are poor at recognizing pain in horses, but those with more experience are better equipped to identify subtle cues. Higher levels of social anxiety also influenced pain recognition, particularly in humans, highlighting the need for education and training on equine welfare.

Scientists uncover new on-switch for pain signaling pathway that could lead to safer treatment and relief

Researchers at Tulane University discovered a new nerve cell signaling mechanism that can turn on pain signaling after injury, potentially leading to safer treatments. The discovery of enzyme vertebrate lonesome kinase (VLK) offers a new way to influence cell behavior and could simplify drug development.

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.

Scripps Research study reveals how uterine contractions are regulated by stretch and pressure during childbirth

A new Scripps Research study reveals that the uterus senses and responds to physical forces during childbirth through specialized pressure sensors. The findings could help scientists better understand conditions like stalled labor and preterm birth, guiding future efforts to develop treatments.

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.

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.

School of Dentistry at UT Health San Antonio awarded $6 million total to study treatment, pain management for oral cancer

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry are studying novel targets and approaches to treat oral squamous cell carcinoma, the most common type of oral cancer. The studies aim to reduce pain management and mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy.

New study links teen migraines to hypertension: Why early blood pressure screening matters

A nationwide study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that adolescents with migraines are three times more likely to have high blood pressure. The research suggests that early blood pressure screening for teens with migraines could help detect cardiovascular risks before they develop into chronic disease.

Mindfulness improves the health of women with chronic jaw pain

A study conducted at the University of São Paulo found that mindfulness can help reduce pain sensitivity and improve emotional regulation in women with TMD. The research involved 53 women who participated in an eight-week mindfulness program, showing significant improvement in pressure pain threshold and reduction in painful points.

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.