Research on pain and how to relieve it. Covers chemotherapy nerve injury, music and pain, migraine patterns, and back-pain treatments.
Researchers discovered distinct neuronal populations in the ACC process pain and itch information separately, with stimulus-specific neurons receiving differentiated synaptic inputs from the mediodorsal thalamus. Suppressing these neurons reduced corresponding sensations without affecting the other.
Research reveals nearly 10% of individuals with disabilities misused prescription drugs in the past year, compared to 4.4% without disabilities. Young adults and those with cognitive disabilities are particularly vulnerable to prescription drug misuse.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a specific molecular change that affects the strength of pain sensation by altering action potential duration. This finding offers a novel approach to alleviate clinically relevant pain conditions through boosting potassium channel function.
A new study found that physical activity can significantly improve mental well-being in women with chronic pelvic pain disorders, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids. The benefits appear to accumulate over time, highlighting the importance of consistency in physical activity.
Researchers at the University of Malaga have identified multiple genetic variants causing Familial Chilomicronemia Syndrome, a rare disease characterized by high triglyceride levels. This discovery enables accurate clinical diagnosis and treatment selection for patients with this condition.
Research suggests strong synthetic opioids during surgery contribute to poor 'pain experience', encompassing emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects. Factors associated with poor pain experience include age, anxiety levels, tobacco use, and type of surgery.
A study of Viking skulls using CT scans reveals a range of diseases including sinus and ear infections, osteoarthritis, and dental diseases. The results provide greater understanding of the health and wellbeing of the Viking population.
A study at Michigan Medicine found that using less polluting inhaled anesthetic agents reduced CO2 equivalents by over 14 kg per case. This resulted in a 50% decrease in harmful emissions without impacting patient safety or outcomes.
A study found that patients who received opioid prescriptions in the emergency department were more likely to receive additional opioid prescriptions or require hospital admissions in the following year. Patient characteristics, such as age and health conditions, played a significant role in determining risk.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have found that opioid delta-receptor agonists can alleviate stress-induced IBS symptoms in a validated mouse model by targeting the central nervous system. The study suggests that these drugs could provide a more definitive solution for IBS with minimal adverse effects.
Researchers have found that UTIs cause nerves in the bladder to become hypersensitive, resulting in painful sensations and frequent urination. This new study provides a deeper understanding of how UTIs affect bladder function and offers potential new treatment options for patients suffering from recurrent UTIs or other bladder conditions.
The temporomandibular joint is a neurogenic joint susceptible to peripheral nerve regulation, as confirmed by previous studies. A new study reveals the pivotal role of sympathetic nerves in modulating TMJ osteoarthritis pain and highlights a previously unexplored interaction between the sympathetic and sensory nervous system.
A new research project funded by a $600,000 grant is exploring the mechanics behind episiotomies, with the goal of developing safer and more effective surgical practices. The study uses advanced experimental techniques and computational simulations to understand how incisions spread and potentially lead to tears.
Researchers found large pediatric centers achieve low rates of delayed diagnosis with low CT use, likely due to high-quality ultrasound capabilities. The study aims to drive diagnostic improvements by promoting adherence to best practices and coordinated care.
A new study found that adults with newly diagnosed sciatica who received chiropractic spinal manipulation experienced significantly lower rates of opioid-related adverse drug events compared to those receiving usual medical care. The study highlights the potential benefits of non-pharmacological approaches in managing pain.
A new study found that empathy responses peak in young adulthood, with increased sensitivity to social pain. This development demonstrates that empathy strengthens as people age, but also accompanies reduced ratings of pain for others, highlighting the complexities of empathic responses.
Researchers developed a novel cortical biomarker signature to predict individual pain sensitivity, showcasing high accuracy and reproducibility. The study suggests this biomarker has substantial potential for clinical translation in predicting chronic pain transitions.
A large proportion of preterm babies experience pain, but healthcare professionals report only 45% experiencing pain. The study suggests undertreatment may be a factor, with the smallest and most premature babies receiving lower doses of morphine.
Non-white communities had significantly less access to opioid medications, despite declines in prescription use across the US. Communities of color may be especially vulnerable to the unintended consequences of efforts to reduce opioid analgesics.
Researchers found that consuming moderate amounts of curcumin can facilitate muscle recovery and alleviate pain following strenuous physical exercise. The study also confirmed curcumin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in the context of sports, with benefits including reduced muscle damage and inflammation.
A new study from UC Davis reveals a concerning decline in residents applying to pain medicine fellowship programs, with female physicians dropping 27.5%. This could lead to longer wait times and reduced treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
A multidisciplinary team led by the Wyss Institute aims to create novel anesthesia-inducing drugs that can safely induce an anesthesia-like state without compromising vital functions. The project leverages expertise from Harvard's MCB, MIT, and Tufts University to develop safe battlefield-ready anesthetics.
A Swedish study found that topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is characterized by symptoms such as redness, pain, and itching, often accompanied by sleep problems. The study aimed to understand the phenomenon of TSW, which many patients consider a cortisone dependence.
Researchers have identified parvalbumin interneurons as the key players in encoding pain intensity and driving gamma oscillations. The findings suggest PV interneurons in S1 as a promising target for therapeutic interventions to treat chronic pain, providing new insights into nociceptive processing and its relationship with GBOs.
The study found that less than 3% of pain medications prescribed to NFL athletes were for opioids, with NSAIDs being the preferred first-line treatment. Most players did not receive any opioid prescriptions, indicating a safer approach to pain management in professional football.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new paper-based biosensor system that uses bacterial spores to monitor glucose levels in sweat, eliminating the need for finger-stick devices. The system is shelf-stable, self-replicating, and can endure harsh environments, making it a promising alternative for diabetes management.
Scientists at Indian Institute of Science have found how diverse neurons across different brain regions work together to control chronic pain in mice. The lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) plays a key role in driving chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, allowing mice to cope with or suppress pain.
A study by University of Gothenburg found that male construction workers have a 50% higher risk of suicide attempts and suicides compared to other professions. The study, based on registry data, also shows that men in low-educated occupations have a 60% greater risk of suicidal acts.
Researchers will analyze tissue samples from 100 patients over three years to understand why some respond better than others to biologic and targeted therapies. The study aims to improve matching of treatments to individual patients, reducing the guesswork and cost associated with ineffective treatment.
A new study by UCL researchers has found that people who care for both their children and older family members – known as 'sandwich carers' – experience a significant decline in both mental and physical health. The study, which analysed data from around 2,000 sandwich carers, highlights the need for better support and resources to help...
A recent study by Mizzou researchers found that nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias are more likely to experience avoidable hospital transfers due to a mismatch between care provided and personal preferences. Increasing staff support, training, and resources can help improve outcomes for these residents.
Pain coping skills training significantly reduced pain interference in patients undergoing hemodialysis, with a substantial proportion experiencing clinically meaningful improvements. The intervention had modest but beneficial effects on other pain-associated outcomes.
A new study found that emergency department physicians differ in their likelihood of hospitalizing patients, with those who admit more patients being discharged sooner but not less likely to die. The study suggests that differences in physician decision-making drive these variations, rather than patient health.
A survey of women who had medical abortions found that many were unprepared for the intensity of the pain they experienced. The study suggests that more realistic and patient-centered information is needed to enable women to make an informed choice about abortion methods.
A study published in Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that Reiki therapy resulted in clinically significant improvements in pain, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and well-being among outpatients with cancer. The study involved 392 Reiki sessions for 268 unique patients, showing a mean improvement of 1.78 in pain and 2.09 in anxiety.
Researchers discovered that serine inhibits the cell wall remodeling necessary for Clostridium perfringens to form spores, preventing food poisoning. The study provides insights into the underlying mechanism of spore formation and may lead to new strategies for preventing foodborne illnesses.
A randomized clinical study found that an opioid-free treatment pathway is both safe and effective for bariatric surgery patients. The alternative method, which combines three different medicines, significantly reduces the need for opioids during treatment.
Researchers discovered a new pathway to pain management by modulating pain signals with solvent molecules, offering an alternative to traditional pain medications. The study showed that deuterated water suppressed pain signal transmission and achieved effective analgesia.
Scientists identify hederagenin, a highly selective antagonist of NPFFR1, to block chronic pain. The discovery could facilitate the rational design of future therapeutics for pain management.
The program aims to decrease opioid use by increasing provider knowledge of integrative therapies and providing sustained outpatient follow-up. University Hospitals will refine evidence-based integrative therapies such as music therapy and acupuncture to address acute pain.
A study published in Nature Mental Health found that nearly half of young asylum seekers in the US exhibit worrisome symptoms of cardiovascular disease, including heart palpitations and chest pain. This unexpected prevalence highlights the need for clinicians to consider cardiovascular concerns when evaluating this younger population.
Researchers at NYU Pain Research Center have found a new receptor for nerve growth factor that plays an important role in pain signaling. The discovery holds promise for finding new treatments for arthritis and other forms of inflammatory and cancer pain without the side effects of recent therapies.
New research from the University of Pittsburgh found that opioids can suppress the immune system and reduce the effectiveness of immunotherapy for head and neck cancer. However, peripherally restricted OPRM1 antagonists (PAMORAs) may block opioid-induced immunosuppression and improve response rates to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Women with infertility are at higher risk of developing SARD, including lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, even after accounting for pre-eclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Infertility treatments do not appear to increase this risk, suggesting that women may be undiagnosed or untreated.
The American Heart Association warns hunters about the increased risk of heart attack and stroke due to exertion, cold temperatures, and excitement. Hunters should recognize symptoms, take breaks, and have a plan in case of emergencies. Learning Hands-Only-CPR can also save lives.
Researchers found that increasing levels of the naturally occurring endocannabinoid 2-AG can counteract the rewarding properties of opioids, reducing addiction-like behaviors in mice. The study suggests a potential new therapeutic strategy to alleviate pain while minimizing opioid addiction risk.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have conducted a groundbreaking study on shore crabs, revealing that they possess pain receptors and neural reactions in response to painful stimuli. The findings provide conclusive evidence for the existence of pain in crustaceans, highlighting the need for more humane treatment methods.
Researchers at the University of Vienna have developed a new class of oral peptide therapeutic leads for treating chronic abdominal pain. These gut-stable oxytocin analogues offer a safe, non-opioid-based solution for conditions such as IBS and IBD.
A recent longitudinal study from the University of Toronto reveals that older adults with migraine are at a substantial increase in risk of depression during the pandemic. Increased family conflict, difficulties in accessing healthcare, and caregiving responsibilities were associated with higher risks of depression among this population.
Researchers at Maynooth University are leading a two-year study to develop non-abrasive bandages that can be sprayed onto the skin and melted away painlessly. The goal is to reduce the agony experienced by those living with Epidermolysis Bullosa, a genetic skin condition affecting over 500,000 children and adults worldwide.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis found spinal cord stimulation therapies to be more effective in reducing chronic back and leg pain. These findings suggest spinal cord stimulation as a valuable option for chronic pain management.
The 2024 Guidelines for First Aid provide critical updates on recognizing and responding to mild, moderate, and life-threatening emergencies. The guidelines offer enhanced guidance on managing opioid overdoses, bleeding, and other conditions, as well as improved recommendations for emergency care involving children.
A study of over 4,000 participants found that those with both conditions showed faster memory impairment. The researchers suggest that the combination of joint pain and depressive symptoms can lead to an 'overlap' of information in the brain, causing cognitive decline.
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that unclear procedures and distribution of responsibilities among healthcare workers can lead to poor oral health in older adults in nursing homes. The researchers suggest that a more structured process can promote communication and awareness of good oral health practices.
Researchers compared vowels in pain, disgust, and joy interjections to nonlinguistic vocalizations across 131 languages. They found consistent vowel signatures for pain and disgust, but not for joyful emotions.
Researchers trained an AI model on goat faces in pain, achieving 62-80% accuracy. This technology may help clinicians treat pain effectively in patients who cannot speak. The goal is to develop a more generalizable system for pain assessment in animals and eventually humans.
A new hourglass-shaped stent could improve blood flow and alleviate severe chest pain in people with microvascular disease. The study found that 76% of participants experienced improvement in their daily activities, including walking and climbing stairs without pain.
A new study has identified 16 distinct types of nerve cells in humans, challenging the long-held assumption that each type of sensation is linked to a specific nerve cell. The research reveals complex interactions between these nerve cells and their functions.
A large-scale clinical trial will enroll 644 children across the US to determine if adding acetaminophen or ketorolac to opioid-based pain control reduces pain in critically ill children. The study aims to improve pediatric intensive care worldwide by reducing side effects and increasing long-term patient outcomes.
Research by Marieke Wieringa found that people are more inclined to believe a robot is in pain if it's manipulated to experience emotional distress. This can lead to increased pity and decreased willingness to mistreat the robot.