Pain control bandage now available for clinical use
The CT1 is a small, wireless device providing pain relief with minimal side effects. It can be used for various conditions such as arthritis, minor cuts, and surgical procedures.
Pain
Articles tagged with Pain
Higher pain tolerance in males can't be bought
A study of 81 undergraduates found that males exhibit higher pain thresholds and tolerances than females. The researchers also discovered that psychological factors can influence the association between physiological responses and pain responses, and additional research is needed to replicate these findings.
Antioxidant alpha lipoic acid (ALA) significantly improves symptoms of diabetic neuropathy
A study published in Diabetes Care found that alpha lipoic acid significantly improved symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, including a 5.7-point total symptom score improvement. The treatment had no unfavorable side effects and may be a promising lead for future research into the cause and prevention of diabetic neuropathy.
Redheaded women respond better to painkilling drug
A new study by McGill University found that redheaded women respond better to a painkilling drug due to a genetic variation in the Mc1r gene. This gene is associated with pigmentation and variants cause red hair and fair skin, leading to a heightened response to kappa-specific analgesics.
Data from a new study show Keppra helped alleviate pain
A new study finds Keppra alleviates severe nerve pain in cancer patients by reducing VAS scores to 0-3 within 3-14 days, with a significant decrease in opioid use. The medication was well-tolerated and showed potential therapeutic benefits for further investigation.
Mayo Clinic study finds total hip replacement among older patients provides better quality of life
A Mayo Clinic study found that total hip replacement surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for patients over 90 years old. The study, which reviewed medical records from 1970 to 1997, showed that patients experienced substantial relief of pain and functional improvement after surgery.
New potential therapy for sickle cell disease
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital found that providing extra nitric oxide through inhalation may reverse or stop vaso-occlusive crisis symptoms. The treatment reduced pain scores and morphine use in patients with severe sickle cell disease, warranting further investigation.
Alcohol researchers identify a genetic basis of pain response
Researchers found that specific genetic variants, such as the val158met polymorphism in the COMT gene, influence an individual's sensitivity to pain. This genetic variation affects brain regions involved in pain perception and emotional regulation, leading to increased pain ratings and a more negative internal state.
New study validates criteria for safe, rapid treatment of patients with cocaine-related chest pain
A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center has established criteria for safely treating patients with cocaine-associated chest pain. The study found that patients who did not show evidence of heart-muscle damage or cardiovascular complications during a 12-hour observation period had a low risk of death or other problems in the 30 ...
Depression related to poor health after bypass surgery
Researchers found depression before surgery significantly increased hospitalization for cardiac reasons six months post-operative, with patients experiencing prolonged surgical pain and failure to return to normal activities. Depression also persisted post-surgery, often unrecognized and untreated.
Psychotherapy for HIV-related pain may have limited appeal
A study of 61 patients with HIV-related peripheral neuropathy found that psychotherapy reduced pain intensity and improved daily life functions. However, high dropout rates and short attendance periods made it challenging to assess the treatment's effectiveness.
Hurry up and wait
A study examining ambulance transport data in Toronto found that diversion can cause important delays for critically ill patients. The researchers used data from 3609 patients with chest pain in 1997 and 1999 to show a 28.4% increase in transport intervals during periods of high overcrowding.
Pain, poor coping skills diminish quality of life for HIV patients
HIV patients who use self-distraction techniques or drugs to cope with stress report reduced energy levels and social activity limitations. Pain affects daily activities, work performance, and school performance.
Supervised exercise program is an effective remedy for cramping leg pain
Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) who undergo supervised exercise programs experience improvements in blood flow, reduced systemic inflammation, and enhanced cardiovascular health. By walking on a treadmill several times a week, PAD patients can eventually reduce their leg pain and increase their walking distance.
Structure of pain-modulating enzyme described by scientists at the Scripps Research Institute
Researchers have solved the structure of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme that metabolizes endocannabinoids like anandamide, which provide natural pain relief. By inhibiting FAAH, scientists aim to increase the longevity of these molecules, potentially leading to effective and long-lasting pain relief without side effects.
New test speeds diagnosis of chest pain
A new test protocol has been shown to accurately diagnose chest pain in emergency patients, with a 100% sensitivity rating for heart attacks. The protocol's accelerated evaluation tool may reduce hospital admissions and improve patient outcomes by enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Penn researchers study how atorvastatin treats symptoms of peripheral arterial disease
A study on atorvastatin found patients experienced quality of life improvements, but primary endpoints were not met. Peripheral arterial disease affects millions worldwide, causing leg pain and reduced blood supply.
Study concludes no difference between ionized bracelet and placebo for musculoskeletal pain relief
A study of 610 participants found that wearing an ionized bracelet for 28 days did not provide significant pain relief compared to a placebo. The researchers conclude that the equivalent improvement in pain scores may call into question the true benefit of using such bracelets.
Depression after bypass surgery linked to later problems
A recent study found that depression one month after coronary artery bypass surgery is a significant risk factor for continued cardiac problems. The research suggests that evaluating patients for depression after surgery and providing treatment may enhance long-term outcomes.
Enzyme replacement therapy found to effectively treat patients with Fabry disease
Patients receiving enzyme replacement therapy for a near-two-year period show improved pain levels and reduced organ damage. The treatment continues to be effective despite the presence of antibodies in some patients.
Ouch! The receptors mediating acidic pain sensation
A study by Shinya Ugawa and colleagues found that acid sensing ion channels (ASICs) function as acid sensors within a specific pH range, while VR1 receptors are not involved. The ASICs inhibitor amiloride may be a useful analgesic for treating localized pain within this range.
Radio-frequency ablation for treatment of cancer pain in bone
The Mayo Clinic study shows RF ablation can effectively kill cancer cells causing bone pain, with 95% of patients experiencing significant pain relief. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes and alleviates pain by killing nerve endings and cancer tissue.
Women report chronic pelvic pain not taken seriously, survey shows
A recent survey of 968 women aged 15-59 found that nearly 60% were told their pain is normal by their Ob/Gyn or a friend/family member. Chronic pelvic pain affects many lives, but often takes years to receive an accurate diagnosis.
UW awarded $1 million grant from The Paul G. Allen Foundation for Medical Research
Dr. Berger's lab will expand its studies of idiopathic prostatitis and explore potential solutions using Botox and genetic stress factors. The grant will help develop a working model explaining the disease's puzzling manifestations.
Chili peppers and inflammation: Researchers unravel mechanism of pain sensitivity
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that the activation of p38 increases TRPV1 protein in skin, leading to pain hypersensitivity. The findings may open up new options for pain management through the use of inhibitors to block this process.
Rory Cooper, PhD receives the highest award offered by U.S. Dept. Of Veterans Affairs
Dr. Rory Cooper's groundbreaking work on wheelchair design and technology has improved the lives of veterans with service-connected disabilities. His contributions include streamlined wheelchairs, accessibility guidelines, and electric-powered wheelchair expansion.
Short-term pain can mean long-term gain for osteoarthritis patients
A new study found that the increased pain following exercise in osteoarthritis patients is short-lived, typically subsiding by evening. This insight can help patients cope with temporary increases in pain and stick to exercise programs for long-term benefits.
Anti-inflammatory drug reduces growth of cancerous tumors In rats
Researchers found that indomethacin reduced postoperative tumor growth by up to 63% in female and male rats. The study suggests controlling pain and inflammation may be crucial in managing cancer patients undergoing surgery.
The majority of hand cuts don't need stitches
Researchers found no difference in cosmetic appearance between sutured and non-sutured hand cuts after three months. Patients treated conservatively reported less pain and shorter treatment times compared to those who received sutures.
Panel calls for greater attention to cancer patients' pain, depression, and fatigue
A panel of experts calls for improved symptom management for cancer patients, citing undertreatment of pain, depression, and fatigue. The panel emphasizes the need for evidence-based treatments and routine assessment tools to ensure optimal symptom control.
Let's talk about sex -- And pain
Researchers at McGill University are studying sex-associated pain in women, focusing on the issue of pain itself rather than its physical or psychological causes. They recommend a combination of cognitive behavioral pain management and physical therapy for relief.
Study finds common knee surgery no better than placebo
A recent study found that patients undergoing arthroscopic lavage or debridement for osteoarthritis of the knee did not experience greater pain relief or improved function compared to those receiving placebo surgery. The researchers suggest that the same therapeutic benefits may be achieved through non-invasive treatment methods.
Continuous stitching method reduces pain for women with perineal damage after childbirth
A new study found that the continuous stitching technique significantly reduced pain in women with perineal damage after childbirth. The method also resulted in fewer suture removals within three months compared to interrupted suturing. This could lead to cost savings and improved outcomes for patients.
Angiogenesis reduces leg pain from clogged arteries
A phase II trial demonstrated the therapeutic benefit of an angiogenic growth factor in patients with painful blockages in the legs. Treated patients showed significant increases in peak walking times and improved scores in a blood pressure index, suggesting improved perfusion.
Rutgers' announces Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Investigator Awards in Health Policy Research
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Investigator Awards program funds research initiatives addressing cultural influences on pain management, the right to healthcare, and the impact of regulation on human subjects. The newly funded projects will provide fresh insights to inform health policy.
Does pain get on your nerves?
Dr. James Henry studies the electrical activity of nerve cells to understand how pain is transmitted to the brain. He hopes to establish collaborations among pain researchers and medical professionals to improve treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Dealing with death
Dr. Robin Cohen developed the McGill Quality of Life (MQOL) Questionnaire to measure existential, physical, psychological, and social well-being in terminally ill patients. She emphasizes the importance of addressing cognition, emotion, and spiritual aspects of pain management.
Hush little baby
Dr. Johnston's research focuses on reducing infant pain in preterm babies, finding skin-to-skin contact and sugar administration can be effective soothing methods. She also coaches pediatric nurses and promotes a pain awareness campaign to improve treatment options for infants and their families.
Too much chili burns out flavor
Researchers found that chili peppers suppress sweetness, bitterness, and umami flavors, while leaving saltiness and sourness unaffected. Adding chili could be used to balance bitter flavors in foods.
Patch delivers longer, deeper relief from dental pain
A recent study by Ohio State University found that the DentiPatch, a small adhesive patch containing lidocaine, delivers longer and deeper relief from dental pain. The patch's anesthetic effects last up to 45 minutes, whereas traditional gel-based treatments only last about a minute.
Hopkins physicians find hidden tumors in rare bone disease
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a novel imaging technique to detect tiny tumors that cause a rare bone disorder. The method, which uses radioactive pentetreotide to identify tumor locations, has correctly pinpointed tumors in five of seven patients with oncogenic osteomalacia.
Breakthrough pain in cancer associated with need for increased medical services, higher medical costs
Breakthrough pain in cancer patients incurs $12,000/year in medical services; non-breakthrough patients incur $2,400/year. Study finds link between breakthrough pain and increased need for hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and doctor visits.
A peptide whose absence leads to narcolepsy also might play role in pain sensation
Researchers found that hypocretin neurons from the hypothalamus establish direct connections with spinal cord nerve cells involved in pain perception. This discovery may lead to new treatments for pain, particularly in spinal cord injuries.
Study finds that steroids soothe sore throat pain
Researchers found that steroid treatment reduced sore throat pain by four hours and increased relief to twice that of placebo patients. The study also showed significant cost savings due to the pill form, which eliminates the need for a physician or nurse to administer the shot.
Poor adherence to pain medication regimen, insufficient prescriptions, key factors in ineffective cancer pain management
A study by UCSF found that cancer patients often prefer to experience pain over the side effects of opioid analgesics. Effective pain management requires repeated assessment and adjustments in dosage, according to experts.
Insufficient prescriptions and poor adherence are key factors in poor cancer pain management
A new UCSF study found that many cancer patients are not taking around-the-clock and as-needed pain medicines as prescribed by their physicians. This results in inadequate pain relief, with only 29.2% of patients receiving both long-acting and short-acting opioids.
Protein test sets new standard for heart attack detection
A new protein test has been developed to improve heart attack detection, particularly in cases of non-ST segment elevation heart attack. The test shows significant predictive value and could lead to a doubling of identified patients with mild heart attacks.
Positive attitude is best prevention against heart disease
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that nitroglycerin relief does not accurately predict coronary artery disease, challenging the long-held assumption. The study found that only 28% of patients with heart disease experienced chest pain relief from nitroglycerin.
Where diabetic patients with chest pains should be treated
Researchers found that diabetic patients with multiple heart disease risk factors have higher short-term death or heart attack risk. They are more likely to receive aggressive attention and may benefit from direct hospital admission.
Dr. David Waddell to present research findings at national meeting
Dr. Waddell presents two studies showing viscosupplementation is safe and effective for patients with advanced osteoarthritis, delaying total knee replacements by up to 1 year.
Surgeons, not CT or ultrasound, should diagnose appendicitis UC Davis study shows
A UC Davis study found that surgical consultations were faster and more accurate than CT scans and ultrasounds in diagnosing appendicitis. Surgeons determined diagnosis within 10 hours, while patients waited 13-19 hours for CT or ultrasound results.
Morphine-like drugs could offer relief for amputees
Researchers found that morphine significantly relieved both types of pain, while lidocaine only relieved stump pain. The study suggests different therapeutic sensitivities and mechanisms for stump and phantom pain. Morphine's action on both peripheral and central nervous systems may provide new treatment options.
Leeches reduce the pain of osteoarthritis
A small study found leech therapy to be effective in reducing pain from osteoarthritis, with rapid relief seen after three days and sustained effects four weeks later. The treatment produced no side effects or infections.
Awareness during surgery leaves emotional scars
A study of 16 'awareness' patients found that over half had PTSD, while control subjects showed no memory recall. Patients experienced intense emotions, helplessness, and dissociation after surgery.
Cocaine-related deaths, drug-related emergency visits drastically increasing, UT Southwestern researchers report
Young adults experiencing nontraumatic chest pains may have cocaine use, researchers say. Effective treatments include nitroglycerin or calcium blockers for constricted blood vessels.
Exercise offers emotional benefits for the frail elderly
A large clinical trial found exercise improves emotional health in frail elderly adults by increasing self-efficacy and sense of mastery. However, improvements were modest in size and did not affect physical health parameters such as gait speed.
The struggle for pain relief in India
A study in Calicut, India found no instances of misuse or diversion of oral morphine over 2 years. The research shows that opioids can be dispensed safely for home use with proper controls in place, overcoming regulatory barriers.
Doubt over appropriateness of conventional epidurals
Low-dose combined spinal epidural and infusion techniques have been shown to increase the rate of normal vaginal delivery compared to traditional epidurals. However, these methods may also be associated with longer recovery times for newborns and increased risk of breathing difficulties.
OHSU researchers survey physicians and nurses regarding increases in pain among dying patients
A recent study by OHSU researchers found that 96% of physicians and nurses believe increased family expectations for pain management contributed to the observed increase in family reports of pain among dying patients. Additionally, decreased physician prescribing of pain medications (66%) and reduced nurse administration of pain medica...
Catheter laser procedure and heart medicine effective
A study published in the Lancet found that a catheter laser procedure combined with medication is more effective than medication alone in treating severe chest pain. The procedure, known as PTMR, stimulates new blood vessel growth and increases circulation to relieve angina symptoms.