Research on pain and how to relieve it. Covers chemotherapy nerve injury, music and pain, migraine patterns, and back-pain treatments.
Researchers have developed high-resolution images of 'invisible' cell pores, shedding light on their role in regulating water flow and molecule passage. The discovery could lead to new classes of drugs targeting these pores.
A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery has developed a screening checklist to help diagnose degenerative joint disease (DJD) in cats. The checklist, called the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Screening Checklist, asks owners six questions about their cat's behavior and can be completed quickly by owners.
Researchers found that Florida's law restricting opioid prescribing for acute pain led to a decrease in opioid misuse and improved patient safety. The study also showed a significant reduction in overdose deaths among patients treated with opioids.
A new study by Yale researchers found that a brief introduction to mindfulness concepts can significantly reduce physical pain and negative emotions in people. The study's results showed that even when participants were subjected to high heat on their forearm, their brain responded as if it was experiencing normal temperature.
Research suggests that taking acetaminophen with a tendency to forgive can reduce social pain by influencing pain signaling in the brain. Forgiveness also lessens feelings of stress and anger following experiences of social exclusion. The combination may provide an antidote to the emotional and physical pains of rejection.
A study published in Military Medicine found that nearly all veterans with Gulf War illness (GWI) reported experiencing moderate to severe fatigue, sleep, and pain symptoms. The survey, which included 485 veterans, also revealed a high prevalence of cognitive dysfunction and anxiety.
A new study found that over half of US opioid prescriptions for dental procedures exceeded the recommended 3-day supply, with nearly 1/3 of patients receiving more powerful opioids than needed. The study suggests that improving guidelines and education for dentists can help reduce overprescription.
A new pilot study found that a 90-second magnetocardiography scan using CardioFlux Magnetocardiograph can help rule out coronary artery disease in patients presenting with chest pain. The test showed competitive results relative to stress testing and coronary angiography, with high specificity and negative predictive value.
The study reveals that a small subset of providers account for disproportionately high amounts of opioids, with the top 1% prescribing nearly 1,000 times more than the middle 1%. Most providers generally prescribe safely below recommended thresholds.
Researchers will analyze a database of anonymized GP consultations and medical records to identify shared characteristics among patients with undiagnosed chest pain who later experience a heart attack or stroke. The study's findings could inform GPs about warning signs, enabling early intervention and potentially preventing many cases.
A Houston Methodist study found that using long-acting local anesthetics and scheduled non-narcotic pain medication reduced opioid prescriptions from 87% to 10% after surgery. The program successfully managed pain after surgery using over-the-counter pain medication, decreasing the chance of patients becoming addicted to narcotics.
A new multicenter study finds that stabilizing fractured and partially dislocated ribs through surgical stabilization improves patient outcomes, with reduced pain, increased comfort, and lower complication rates. Patients who underwent the procedure experienced better quality of life and fewer complications compared to those who did not.
Researchers found that cannabinoids can relieve pain caused by endometriosis and improve cognitive function in mice with the condition. THC treatment also reduced endometrial growths, suggesting a potential therapeutic effect.
Researchers discovered that altruistic individuals experience less physical pain than controls. Brain activity scans revealed a correlation between altruism and decreased pain activity in the brain's medial prefrontal cortex.
A randomized study found that MIV-711 significantly reduced bone and cartilage progression in knee osteoarthritis patients. However, the treatment had no beneficial effects on osteoarthritic knee pain.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized clinical trials found evidence suggesting acupuncture and acupressure can reduce cancer pain. The studies showed varied but generally positive effects on pain reduction, with some suggesting improved outcomes in patients receiving acupuncture or acupressure.
Researchers are developing a non-invasive device that uses transcranial direct current stimulation to desensitize areas tied to knee pain in the brain. Participants wear a cap powered by three AAA batteries and undergo 15, 20-minute sessions over three weeks.
A new study by Portland State University researchers found racial and ethnic disparities in pain treatment by emergency responders, with Hispanic and Asian patients receiving lower quality care. The study analyzed 25,732 health records and found that odds of pain assessment were 21-31% lower for these groups compared to white patients.
Researchers found that treating spinal cord injuries with conditioned stem cells boosted neural growth and improved motor function in rat models. After four months, the treated rats showed a three-fold increase in motor activity and significant improvements in cell survival, offering new hope for human treatment.
A new US study demonstrates the effectiveness of genicular artery embolization (GAE) in treating osteoarthritis knee pain. The minimally invasive procedure blocks blood flow to certain parts of the knee, providing rapid relief from pain and disability. Results show significant improvement in pain scores, with nearly all patients experi...
Researchers discovered that rats can use empathy to sense danger and react accordingly, showing a more interactive process than previously thought. By observing the emotions of other rats, they can prepare for potential threats, with less scared bystanders reducing fear in demonstrators.
A study by UC Davis Health physicians reveals that opioid dose tapering is becoming increasingly common, with rates often exceeding CDC recommendations. The study found that nearly 20% of patients tapered at a rate of 40% per month, highlighting the need for more training and guidance on safe tapering practices.
The new guidelines call for better access to CDK4/6 inhibitors and anti-HER2 therapies for patients with advanced breast cancer. Experts also stress the need for adequate pain control, particularly in countries where opioids are scarce or misused.
A 7-year prospective cohort study found that early use of regional anesthesia is associated with sustained pain benefits throughout rehabilitation and recovery. The study suggests that effective, agile pain interventions can play an important role in reducing future pain.
Researchers found that methotrexate significantly reduced joint damage progression compared to placebo in patients with erosive hand osteoarthritis, while also facilitating bone remodeling. The study's findings suggest that treatment should be initiated earlier to have a positive effect on pain.
A six-week treatment with low-dose oral prednisolone substantially improves pain and decreases signs of inflammation in patients with painful hand osteoarthritis. Substantial improvements in pain and function were seen, exceeding effects of currently available therapies.
Non-Hispanic black and Hispanic women reported higher pain scores compared to white women during the postpartum period. Despite this, they received fewer opioids and were less likely to receive prescriptions at discharge.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Health are developing a web-based pain management program using the PainTRAINER platform to help cancer survivors manage persistent pain without opioids. The study aims to test the effectiveness of this approach in improving coping strategies and reducing pain medication use.
A comprehensive review of mind-body therapies found associations with lower opioid use and better pain outcomes. The study combined data from multiple studies, providing evidence for the effectiveness of these interventions in managing chronic pain among adults on opioids.
A recent study observed a significant reduction in opioid use and improvement in pain control among patients receiving fewer opioid tablets after corneal surgery. This decrease is attributed to the reduced prescription of opioids, highlighting the potential benefits of more conservative treatment approaches.
A study at the University of Vermont Medical Center found significant reductions in opioid prescribing and use after implementing state-mandated regulations, but no negative impact on pain management. The regulations included educating patients about non-opioid analgesia and safe disposal of unused opioids.
A decision support tool has been shown to reduce unnecessary referrals of low-risk patients with chest pain, potentially saving $4 million annually in healthcare costs. The tool uses evidence-based red flags to help primary care pediatricians accurately assess cardiac conditions.
Research reveals that 76.7% of swimmers experience shoulder pain within the last 12 months, with distances swum exceeding 2,001 yards significantly increasing pain reports. The study also found that nearly half of athletes know peers using pain medication, highlighting a concerning trend in competitive swimming.
A new study reveals that young adult women with a history of childhood maltreatment experience higher levels of pain and more frequent episodes of pain compared to their non-abused peers. The researchers suggest that addressing stress symptoms and poor coping mechanisms may help reduce the impact of childhood abuse on young adult health.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that involving patients in pain management decisions significantly decreased opioid prescriptions without compromising pain control. The majority of patients reported their pain control as adequate or good and said their pain level was better or much better than expected.
A Dartmouth study found that healthcare providers' expectations can influence patients' perceptions of treatment effectiveness, even with placebo treatments. Patients reported less pain and indicated higher efficacy when doctors expected the treatment to work.
New UBC research finds a higher risk of severe tears with unassisted episiotomies, while assisted births like forceps deliveries show some protection against perineal injury. The study suggests caution in applying general guidelines for all vaginal deliveries.
A large US study found that 1 in 5 patients was prescribed opioids after having a pacemaker or similar device implanted, with 80 percent having never taken opioids before. The study highlights the importance of improving postoperative pain management following cardiac device procedures to reduce opioid prescriptions.
A large Canadian study found episiotomy can reduce the risk of severe perineal tears in instrument-assisted vaginal deliveries, particularly among first-time mothers. The rate of severe perineal tears has increased in Canada due to improved detection and reporting, affecting up to 15% of births.
Patients who received courteous care during blood draws reported a 390% reduction in pain perception, with 82% experiencing excellent pain control. Empathetic providers were found to make a substantial difference in patient experience.
A large US retrospective study finds nitrous oxide effective in managing labor pain with high patient satisfaction rates and safety for newborns. Despite being an alternative option, most women ultimately opt for epidurals or other pain management techniques.
A study found that nearly one-third of children who had tonsillectomy did not need opioids for pain relief during and after surgery. Researchers used non-opioid pain medications instead, with similar postoperative care time in both groups.
A study found that many women and healthcare providers believe CBD is safe during pregnancy, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Researchers urge pregnant women and providers to be cautious about using CBD due to potential interactions with other medications.
Patients in an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program used nearly half as many opioids and reported significantly less pain compared to those without ERAS. ERAS protocols focus on managing patient expectations and providing alternative pain medications, leading to decreased opioid consumption.
A study shows that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can relieve self-reported symptoms and side-effects of radiotherapy in cancer patients, including bleeding, urinary incontinence, and pain. The treatment, administered for 30-40 sessions, was found to be highly effective for the majority of patients.
A study by TTUHSC researchers suggests that activating certain brain receptors can reduce pain and anxiety associated with arthritis. The compound LY379268 has been shown to produce pain-relieving effects and relieve anxiety, offering potential as a new pain medication.
A new study estimates that endometriosis may be costing the Australian economy as much as $9.7 billion dollars per year due to productivity loss and other expenses. The condition affects around one in nine women born between 1973-78, causing severe pelvic pain and fatigue.
A UK-based web survey found that balance and temperature were also highly valued by the general public. The study aimed to determine the relative importance of different senses in everyday life.
A study found that lop-eared rabbits are more prone to ear canal narrowing, ear infections, tooth overgrowth, and dental problems, potentially leading to pain and discomfort. The research calls into question the ethics of breeding and buying these popular pet rabbits.
Researchers found that people perceive truthfulness higher in claims following alphabetical order, even when source unknown. This can be exploited by companies to convince consumers of slogans or claims.
A University of Otago study confirms the low FODMAP diet is effective in alleviating bowel symptoms in children. Complete resolution was observed in 92% of children with bloating, 87% with diarrhoea and 77% with abdominal pain.
A Phase III trial comparing SBRT and conventional RT found no significant difference in pain response or adverse events between the treatments. The study suggests that a single fraction of 8 Gy EBRT may remain the standard of care for patients with localized spine metastases.
A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis through various mechanisms. Studies have found that plant-based diets are low in fat and high in fiber, which can reduce inflammatory markers and promote healthy gut bacteria.
A study found that patients with gradual symptom onset took eight hours to get medical help, compared to 2.6 hours for those with abrupt symptoms. Patients with gradual symptoms began with mild discomfort that slowly got worse, while abrupt onset referred to sudden and severe pain.
Researchers found that bus drivers who received a serving of fresh fruit in addition to their box lunch experienced significantly decreased depression levels and increased self-efficacy. These small gestures can make a big difference in improving worker performance and health.
Researchers developed an interface to connect a leg prosthesis with residual nerves, providing sensory feedback that reduces effort during walking and phantom limb pain. The system also increased confidence in prosthetic use, enabling users to devote more attention to other tasks.
A comparison of opioid prescription fills after surgery revealed significant differences between the United States, Canada, and Sweden. The study found that 76.2% of US patients filled an opioid prescription within seven days of discharge, compared to 78.6% in Canada and 11.1% in Sweden.
A new study led by Flinders University Professor Derek Chew has shown that up to 70% of patients presenting to Australian emergency departments with chest pain can be safely discharged in less time under a new protocol. The trial involved over 3000 patients and found that those receiving rapid troponin testing spent an average of one h...
Patellofemoral pain affects one in four of the general population every year, with women reporting PFP twice as often as men. Exercise therapy, particularly hip and knee strengthening treatments prescribed by a physical therapist, is found to be the most effective recovery approach for individuals with patellofemoral pain.
A team of researchers from DGIST developed a psychosensory electronic skin technology that can detect pain and temperature sensations like humans. The technology uses zinc oxide nano-wire technology to measure pressure and temperature simultaneously, and can be applied to various tactile systems.