Research on pain and how to relieve it. Covers chemotherapy nerve injury, music and pain, migraine patterns, and back-pain treatments.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study by Wake Forest University School of Medicine reveals that a stress response in immune cells contributes to chemotherapy-induced nerve damage. By blocking this pathway, researchers aim to develop new treatments to protect cancer patients from debilitating side effects.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a molecular mechanism controlling the transition from acute to chronic pain. A newly proposed formula, which includes a modified diet rich in deficient nutrients, showed promise in blocking this transition in mouse models.
A randomized clinical trial found that an unsupervised online Tai Chi intervention improved knee pain and function compared to the control group at 12 weeks. This free web-based intervention offers a safe, accessible, and scalable option for guideline-recommended osteoarthritis exercise.
Research found that picture books often show boys experiencing more pain than girls, while girls are more likely to cry when faced with pain. The study also highlights the lack of representation of prosocial behavior, such as helping others in need.
A study published in CMAJ shows a decline in opioid dispensing between 2018 and 2022, but regional variations remain. The authors highlight the need for coordinated national strategies to address differing implementation of prescribing guidelines.
A new study found that patients who continued spinal cord stimulation had similar mortality rates to the control cohort, suggesting successful pain management can avoid excess mortality. Spinal cord stimulation differs from long-term opioid therapy, which is addictive and increases mortality.
A new study led by Northwestern Medicine found that botulinum toxin injections provided significant short-term relief for phantom limb pain, with an average reduction of four points on a 10-point scale. The treatment, which targets painful nerve endings around neuromas, showed promise as a potential tool to alleviate post-amputation pain.
A recent study found that cannabis may reduce opioid use among commercially insured patients with cancer diagnoses, indicating potential benefits for pain management. However, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of cannabis as a treatment for cancer-related pain.
A study by UT Arlington researchers found that state welfare policies affect joint pain trends, with states like Colorado and Hawaii seeing significant increases. In contrast, Texas saw a decrease in the educational gap despite increased pain prevalence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Poor blood sugar control in adolescence increases the risk of painful future complications for people with type 1 diabetes. Children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age have trouble controlling their blood sugar as teens and are more likely to develop neuropathy in adulthood.
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.
An open-label placebo treatment was associated with improved quality of life and reduced pain-related disability in patients with migraine. However, the treatment did not reduce headache frequency in this study.
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.
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.
A study published in Social Science & Medicine found that people's theoretical willingness to accept money in exchange for enduring pain offers a more reliable way to measure discomfort than conventional measures. The research involved over 300 participants who were exposed to mild painful stimuli and asked to rate the intensity or ind...
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.
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.
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.
A recent analysis reveals a modest decline in new and additional opioid prescriptions for patients with cancer from 2016 to 2020. For patients with metastatic cancer, prescribing remained stable for those reporting any pain but declined steeply for those reporting no pain.
Researchers developed a fully automated finite element analysis pipeline to transform spine diagnostics and personalized treatment planning. The new approach enables rapid, patient-specific simulations that support preoperative planning, spinal implant optimization, and early detection of degenerative spine conditions.