Chronic Pain Web Site
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Hi, I'm sandee1818, and welcome to Med Help's Pain Management community. I am so glad to see you have
joined and I look forward to getting to know you. I am the co-community leader in the pain management community, and I have a wonderful husband and two amazing little girls and a
great son. I have a lot of medical problems but mainly I suffer from chronic pain due to fibromyalgia and several ruptured discs. I've found some wonderful people in the community
that offer support and help when I need it. It really is a great community and we look forward to hearing from you and helping you in any way we can.
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Pain Management
Stand Like a Mountain
This yoga pose, Tadasana is one you could get away with at work without people stopping and staring. It just looks like you are
standing there, when in reality it's working every muscle in your body.
Just What IS a Crick in the Neck?
A crick in the neck, or kink in the neck is not technically a medical term. However, I asked two doctors and a physical therapist for the definitive on this painful problem. Read their answers (and suggestions).
Kink in Your Neck? Roll It Out
Is your neck stiff or sore? To stretch your neck you can do a neck roll exercise right at your desk or computer. This short sequence gives the instructions and the pictures. But be careful of any pain or injury
you have. Err on the side of caution.
Pain Management
Doctors who specialize in pain management recognize the complex nature of pain, and approach the problem from all directions. Just what is
pain management?
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is the kind of pain treated by invasive measures such as
implantable drug pumps. It is an entirely different animal than the more simplistic
nocioceptive pain.
What Are Implantable Drug Pumps?
For many people with excruciating spine pain, taking meds by mouth just doesn't do the job. An implantable drug delivery system (aka, the drug pump) is a pain management treatment that is sometimes used as a last
resort to control neuropathic pain and/or spasticity. The beauty of
this system is that it takes a lot less drug to do the job, which greatly reduces side effects.
Types of Back Exercise Programs
Consumer Medical Reports rates exercise as the most effective treatment for back pain. From abdominal muscles to back muscles,
strengthening and stretching are part of nearly every back rehab program. This list goes
over some of the main types of exercise programs that can help relieve back pain.
Core Strengthening and Your Back
Many rehab clinics and physical therapy offices are now administering core strengthening programs to their back and neck patients. These programs, which focus on the
muscles of the abdomen and back, have shown themselves to be very effective in improving postural alignment and
body mechanics used in activities of daily living, sports and dance.
Access Your Core
True core support cannot happen in the body if the neck and shoulder muscles are holding tension. When there is upper body tension, the whole body is off-center, however slightly. From an off-center position, the
deep abdominal muscles cannot be accessed.
The Psychology of Back Pain
Modest Exercise Helps Chronic Pain Patients
Physical conditioning in chronic pain patients can have immediate and long-term benefits, according to a new study presented at the American Academy of Pain Medicine 24th Annual Meeting.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Fentanyl Gel Patches Recalled Due to Manufacturing Defect
A cut edge in the drug reservoir may lead to direct exposure to fentanyl gel (Duragesic) resulting in potentially fatal adverse events.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Spinal Stenosis Treatment - What the Data Says
Research reveals that surgery for spinal stenosis, usually a laminectomy, can very effectively provide pain relief as well as an increased level of
functioning for the first two years. After that, there is still improvement, although not as much.
But doctors and researchers really don't have a lot of data on other types of treatments for spinal stenosis. Let's find out what is known, what is not known and what the gaps in
knowledge mean to you.
 NSAIDs May Not Be Best Bet for Low Back Pain
review of the literature on drug relief for low back pain (LBP) suggests that the popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are no more effective than other drugs such as acetaminophen, narcotic
analgesics, and muscle relaxants.
Medscape Medical News 2008
 Intensive Patient Education May Be Effective for Acute or Subacute Low Back Pain
A Cochrane review suggests that for patients with acute or subacute nonspecific low back pain, intensive, individualized patient education seems to be effective.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Edema in a Patient Receiving Methadone for Chronic Low Back Pain
A week after starting a regimen of etodolac, gabapentin, and methadone, a 45-year-old woman with chronic low back pain said she felt "drunk" and had swelling in her lower extremities.
Am J Health-Syst Pharm 64(24) 2007
Fold-Over Defect Causes Another Recall of Fentanyl Pain Patches
This time from Actavis, which has initiated a recall of 14 lots; direct exposure to fentanyl gel may lead to potentially fatal adverse events.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Fentanyl Patches Recalled by Manufacturers
It has not been two months since fentanyl, a prescription patch used for moderate to severe pain, was last in the news. Two brand manufacturers and one
generic manufacturer are now recalling some of their fentanyl patches because of leaky packaging. Find out which ones, including
lot numbers and, more importantly, what to do to protect yourself from unwanted exposure to this addictive narcotic medication.
Pain Medicine
American Academy of Pain Medicine (AAPM) 24th Annual Meeting
Read clinically focused news coverage of key developments from the meeting.
Don't Get Burned - Icy Hot Product Recall
If you use Icy Hot Heat Therapy products for your back or neck, here's some news for you. The company has recalled several of their products because consumers were getting skin irritation and burns. Icy Hot
products are air activated cremes, ointments and patches used for temporary relief of back strain, and muscle/joint pain, including
arthritis. Check this list to see if the product you use is being recalled.
Is Botox a Safe Treatment for Pain?
Recently the FDA has received reports of adverse events happening to people who've gotten botox injections. In these cases, the Botox was used for all different kinds of things, regardless of whether the FDA had
approved those usages or not. While they are looking into this, the question that's still out there is - is botox a safe treatment for chronic back or neck
pain?
Chronic Pain May Harm the Brain
A new study indicates that chronic pain has a widespread impact on overall brain function, a finding that may offer a possible explanation for many of the common cognitive and behavioral comorbidities seen in
such patients.
Medscape Medical News 2008
No Clear Evidence to Support Use of Antidepressants for Chronic Low Back Pain
A new review of 10 studies concludes that there is currently no clear evidence to support the use of antidepressants to reduce pain and depression in the management of chronic low back pain.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Patient-Controlled Analgesia Safe, Effective in Postcraniotomy Pain Management
Intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is safe and effective for managing pain after major intracranial surgery compared with conventional as-needed (PRN) therapy, according to research presented at
the 37th Critical Care Congress of the Society of Critical Care Medicine.
Medscape Medical News 2008
Advice, Training in Lifting Techniques May Not Improve Prevention of Back Pain
A systematic review published in the February 1 Online First issue of the BMJ shows no evidence to support use of advice or training in lifting techniques in the workplace with or without lifting equipment to
prevent back pain or consequent disability.
Medscape Medical News 2008
How Old is Your Spine?
Certain back or neck conditions are more likely to appear at particular times in a person's life. Here is a breakdown of a few common conditions and the ages they tend to appear.
Ankylosing Spondylitis "Almost Nailed" with Discovery of Two Causative Genes
An international collaboration of researchers has identified two new genes responsible for the occurrence of ankylosing spondylitis, a debilitating form of arthritis that affects the spine. This development will
likely have a very positive effect when it comes to screening for and treating this most difficult disease.
What to Do with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmue disease that causes the spine to fuse. It is a form of arthritis. Unfortunately, getting a diagnosis can be a challenge because symptoms are easily mistaken for more common
back issues.
Neck Arthritis - Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis, aka neck arthritis, is another type of spinal arthritis that is generally caused by aging and its effects on the spine. Here is a comprehenisve overview.
Massage Your Own Neck
Here's a quick massage technique that you might be able to do without generating an audience. It will soften your levator scapula muscle.
The levator scap is the muscle that makes a "sore spot" in your upper shoulder area when you are stressed or overworked.
How to Simply Stretch Your Neck
Follow this illustrated step-by-step guide to stretch your neck - it will only take a minute or two. If you have neck issues, just be careful not to work through pain.
Massage Your Own Shoulders
The trapezius muscle is the one on top of your shoulders, sitting there like an epaulet. As you probably know, it can get very sore after hours
at a computer. This simple and quick self-massage technique can help you relax it. You can also try the technique on your co-worker or friend (work culture permitting, of course).
Core Strengthening for Back Pain
Once exclusive to the realm of Pilates, core strengthening exercise is now found in nearly every gym, clinic, and fitness DVD catalogue. It comes in many flavors, but always involves working abdominal and other
postural muscles to help create and maintain reliable upright posture.
Yoga for Back Pain Overview
Doing yoga cultivates a balance between the flexibility and strength of the muscles of the body, often the real culprit in back pain. It can also provide a core workout.
Pilates for Back Pain
Pilates is one very popular way to develop abdominal muscles, and core strength.
Stretch Your Spine in the Morning
If you wake up feeling compressed, try these spine lengthening stretches.
Great Morning Body Mechanics
When you wake up, is your back stiff or sore? If so, spend a few moments breathing deeply and stretching your body then follow this step-by-step guide for getting out of bed safely.
A Gallery of Comfortable Sleeping Positions
You can use pillows in all kinds of ways to help support your back and hips when you sleep. The trick is to experiement to see how to pillow prop so that your joints are in neutral positions, and do not feel
strained. This image gallery may give you some ideas to get you started.
Triangle Pose and Your Back - Hips, Hips, Hips!
Hips play a central role in supporting body posture. With a close physical connection between hips and spine, it's no wonder that many people have back pain! There's hope, because a correctly done triangle pose,
or trikonasana, will reintroduce you to your hip joints and get them mobile again.
How to do Triangle Pose
The hip work emphasized in triangle pose is an important step in relieving back pain. But there are other points to this pose, too. Let About.com's Yoga guide, Ann Pizer take you through the sequence of getting
into triangle pose.
Yoga for Spinal Flexibility
When doing yoga to increase your back's flexibility, balance is the word, especially if you have had an injury. Balance is achieved by doing a combination of actions that oppose one another as you move through the
poses. For back pain sufferers, it doesn't have to be a challenging workout, but it does need to be well thought out.
Healing Pain
I can only imagine what it must be like to share tea with my doctor. Or to be in the presence of a medical professional who does not ignore the emotional or spiritual aspects of my pain, nor its extenuating life
circumstances --to spend time with a person who is equally versed in, as well as committed to the healing of the technical aspects of my pain as they are the nature of my suffering. Dr. Ann Berger is such a doctor;
her book, "Healing Pain", is an opportunity for a virtual visit.
Communicating Your Symptoms Accurately
Many people find it tough to establish a rapport with their doctors. Regardless of the reason, the one thing you have is the ability to accurately communicate your back or neck pain symptons to your health care
provider. In the doctor-patient relationship you, and only you are charged with providing the crucial information from which your diagnosis can be determined.
Living With Back Pain
Depending upon the severity of your back pain, you are probably making lifestyle adjustments in order to accomodate this unwanted intruder. And while
doctors have their place in the healing and managing of pain, there is much you can do for yourself.
Alternative Medicine for Your Back and Neck
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, back pain is the #1 reason why people seek alternative medicine, and neck pain is #3. There are a number of viable disciplines that can
have a positive effect.
Back Pain Treatments
Find out about back pain treatments from A-Z.
 New Data in Breakthrough Pain, Neuropathic Pain, and Low Back Pain From APS 2007: An Expert Interview With David M. Simpson, MD
Learn about new data in breakthrough pain, neuropathic pain, and low back pain from APS 2007 in this interview with David M. Simpson, MD.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2007
Yoga for Back Pain
If you are going to try yoga for your back pain, treat yourself as a beginner. Here are some pointers on starting yoga.
Before You Do Yoga For Your Back
People with back pain have to be extra careful when trying out exercise. Yes, doing yoga to help your back may give you pain relief, but establishing a practice that is safe and meaningful for your condition
requires that you know more about why and how to do certain poses. It also means that you should know when not to do a pose.
Yoga for Back Pain - Tadasana
Mountain pose is the first of the yoga standing poses. Contrary to what it may seem, mountain pose is not easy. If you do it correctly, it will work nearly every single muscle you have.
Muscle Relaxers Slow Down Low Back Pain Recovery
Muscle relaxers are often prescribed for episodes of low back pain. They can help get you ready to do some work in physical therapy. But do they help long term recovery?
Chronic Pain Common Among Retired Football Players, Can Compound Depressive Symptoms
A recent survey of retired football players found that their rate of depression was similar to that in the general population, but almost half had chronic pain.
Medscape Medical News 2007
 Spinal Cord Stimulation: Indications and Outcomes
Spinal cord stimulation is the most commonly used implantable neurostimulation modality for management of pain syndromes. What are the current indications and its efficacy in treating these diseases?
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
OxyContin
Last week, executives at Purdue, maker of OxyContin,
stunned the world by taking responsibility for a deliberatly fraudulent marketing campaign for this potentially lethal drug.
Trigeminal and Occipital Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Craniofacial Pain: A Single-institution Experience and
Review of the Literature
The authors present their initial experience with peripheral nerve stimulation for craniofacial pain, summarize published data, and discuss some technical details of the procedure.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
Psychological Factors in Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy: Brief Review and Discussion
In this article, the author briefly reviews some of the data on psychological factors involved in spinal cord stimulation therapy.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
Heat Wrap Therapy for Short Term Low Back Pain
Take your low back pain into any physical therapy clinic, and you will likely be given some heat or ice as part of your treatment. But is it the most effective way to treat low back pain?
Spinal Nerve Root Stimulation
This article analyzes the techniques of spinal nerve root stimulation for chronic pain conditions and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
Motor Cortex Stimulation and Neuropathic Facial Pain
The authors present a review of the literature on motor cortex stimulation, focusing on surgical technique, device programming, safety, and efficacy; and they suggest guidelines for standardization.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
Deep Brain Stimulation for the Treatment of Various Chronic Pain Syndromes
The authors of this study present their experience with deep brain stimulation for the treatment of chronic pain states that that do not respond to less invasive or conservative treatment options.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
 Motor Cortex Stimulation for Intractable Pain
Learn about the history, technique, and outcome of motor cortex stimulation for patients with refractory deafferentation pain syndromes.
Neurosurg Focus 21(6) 2006
Highlights from Pain, Opioids, and Addiction: An Urgent Problem for Doctors and Patients
Read highlights from the joint meeting of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the American Medical Association on opioid prescribing, chronic pain, and prescription drug abuse.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2007
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Linked to High Prevalence of Neurological Disorders
Initial 2-year results from an ongoing prospective cohort study show inflammatory bowel disease increases the risk for subsequent neurological disorders, new research suggests.
Medscape Medical News 2007
Stiff Neck & Meningitis
If stiff neck is any indication, it is difficult to distinguish the symptoms of certain common problems from those of meningitis. Take the Meningitis Awareness Quiz to see test your knowledge on this potentially
lethal cause of a stiff neck. It may save your life!
Beliefs and Back Pain
A recent survey of doctors published in the April 9, 2007 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine inquired about the role of religion and spirituality in patients' health outcomes and points of view. How does religion
or spirituality feature in your health?
Establish Core Support
With the buzz phrases "core support" and "core stabilization" here to stay, it may help to find out how to position yourself so that you can access the deep abdominals, those muscles that support your spine
upright.
Pelvic Power
Sometimes it is very simple things like breathing and being aware of your body's positions that yield the best results for back pain relief. Read my review of Pelvic Power, a delightful little book that will
explain your spinal anatomy to you, and offer easy exercises for developing awareness.
Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor muscles lie at the very bottom of your spine and pelvis, playing a key role in posture. Now you can strengthen them to help you develop ideal spinal alignment.
Advances in Opioid Analgesia: Maximizing Benefit While Minimizing Risk
Review the latest strategies and best tools for patient selection, pain assessment, and optimal pain management.
 Arthritic Pain Activates Brain Regions Involved in Emotions and Fear
The findings from a new study suggest that arthritic pain has a strong emotional component that is not present with experimental pain conditions.
Reuters Health Information 2007
Opioid and Nonopioid Therapies for the Management of Pain
From AAPM 2007: Read about new advances in opioid and nonopioid therapies for the management of pain.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2007
Neuropathic Pain Severity Predicts Response to Duloxetine
Patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) who have more severe symptoms are more likely to respond to duloxetine, according to a report in the March issue of Diabetes
Care.
Reuters Health Information 2007
Radiofrequency Denervation Probe Recall
One pain management procedure, called radiofrequency denervation involves inserting a probe into your skin. Recently there has been a recall of 134 of these probes by one manufacturer. Read about the recall.
Massage Your Own Shoulders
Tight shoulder and neck muscles deserve a massage. For many people, one of the most tense and painful of neck muscles is the trapezius muscle. Here is a technique for massaging your own trap muscle. Try it right
now --- and feel the tension in your neck and shoulder muscles just melt away!
Yoga for Back Pain - Free E-Course
My 6 day free E-Course can get you started on the basics with instructions, safety modifications and information on the benefits and potential dangers for 4 beginning poses. Each lesson will also contain short
articles on related topics to give you the foundation you need to make your yoga practice safe and meaningful to your pain managment efforts.
Chronic Pain and Sleep
Approximately 2/3 of chronic pain sufferers experience sleep problems. When a chronic pain sufferer experiences fragmented sleep, a vicious cycle ensues - sleep disruption caused by chronic pain exacerbates the
pain, which in turn interrupts sleeps. Compounding the problem is that some chronic pain medications tend to disrupt sleeping patterns.
10 Tips for Getting to Sleep with Chronic Pain
Chronic pain and sleep disruption often work together to create a viscious cycle. Sleep hygiene, or the habits around getting a good night's sleep, are simple suggestions that may make a big difference.
Getting Out of Bed Safely for Your Back
March 5-11 is National Sleep Awareness Week. Let's take a look at how to get out of bed in the morning in a way that protects your back.
Effective Communication Between Clinicians and Patients in Chronic Pain Management
Learn about ways to improve communication between clinicians and patients to help optimize outcomes in chronic pain management in this engaging video Spotlight.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2007
Spinal Cord Stimulation May Treat Axial Low Back Pain
Researchers are reporting encouraging preliminary results with spinal cord stimulation to relieve axial back pain associated with failed back surgery syndrome.
Medscape Medical News 2007
Botulinum Toxin A Injections Possible Treatment for Refractory Headache Syndrome
A new study suggests that botulinum toxin A may be helpful in treating patients with refractory headache syndrome. A retrospective review showed reduction in the number and duration of headaches in patients
with chronic migraines, daily headaches, and cervicalgia headaches who had failed conventional treatment.
Medscape Medical News 2007
Deep Brain Stimulation Improves Cervical Dystonia Over Long Term
Bilateral pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) shows favorable long term results in patients with persistent cervical dystonia, Canadian and US researchers report in the February 6th issue of Neurology.
Reuters Health Information 2007
Love Tips for Back Pain Sufferers
Back pain can be an intruder into your sex life and even ruin your relationship, if you are not careful. This article presents six things you can do to keep the love in your life when you suffer from back pain.
Fun Ways to Adapt Your Sex Life to Your Back Pain
Because of your back, you may find yourself in the position of having to accept the impossibility of being vigorous during sexual activity. A good strategy to keep enjoying sex despite back pain is to choose
sensuality over sexuality. This can be accomplished by trying new activities and being open to new experiences.
Pain Sensitivity May Be Altered in Veterans With PTSD
Military veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) show reduced pain sensitivity compared with healthy controls, and altered pain processing may be responsible, according to findings from a functional
imaging study.
Reuters Health Information 2007
Headache and Sleep Disorders: Review and Clinical Implications for Headache Management
Learn about the comorbidity of headache and sleep disorders, clinical implications for headache evaluation, and sleep screening strategies conducive to headache practice.
Relating to Pain
While in the Back and Neck Forum, I found this Chronic Pain Poem, which has been a hit with the forum's visitors. Can you relate? Tell us how by adding a comment or posting in the forum.
Overview of Treatment for Back and Neck Pain
Next to exercise, a multidisciplinary approach to back pain is rated (by Consumer Medical Reports) as the most effective treatment. To this end, I have written descriptions of some of the most common treatments for
back and neck.
Yoga for Back Pain - The Cat-Cow Pose
The Yoga for Back Pain pose this month is the Cat-Cow Pose. As usual, Ann Pizer, About's Yoga guide shows us how to do the pose, and I have some statements to make about how and why the pose is good for your back and
when it might not be so good.
 Acute Hypothalamic Stimulation Not Effective for Ongoing Cluster Headache
Although long-term hypothalamic stimulation is effective in improving drug-resistant cluster headache, researchers report that stimulation did not effectively resolve acute attacks.
Medscape Medical News 2006
Dynorphin A Tied to Chronic Neuropathic Pain
The endogenous opioid dynorphin A can activate non-opioid bradykinin receptors, leading to neural excitation. This may be important in the maintenance of chronic pain, researchers report in the December issue
of Nature Neuroscience.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Methadone-Related Fatalities Underscore Need for Careful Dosing
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned healthcare professionals regarding reports of fatal and life-threatening respiratory depression and cardiac arrhythmias in patients newly receiving oral
methadone HCl for pain control and those who switched to the drug after receiving other strong narcotics.
Medscape Medical News 2006
Living with Pain
Pain, great or small, has altered your way of life. If your back or neck condition is chronic, you may find yourself coming to terms with the fact that life...read
more
The Middle Way: A Practical Approach to Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain
The use of opioids for nonmalignant chronic pain remains controversial. The authors of this Viewpoint discuss the complexities of opioid therapy and present a balanced approach to prescribing opioids.
Nat Clin Pract Neurol 2(11) 2006
Off-label Ketamine Use Studied for Pain Management
The investigators review the current evidence supporting the role of ketamine in pain management.
Medscape Pharmacists 8(2) 2006
Yoga for Back Pain
Yoga can be great for the back. For safety's sake, it is good to go into it with your eyes open, and by being prepared to ask questions of both your teacher and your doctor. Learn about selecting the appropriate
style of yoga, what props can do and why yoga could be helpful for back pain
National Invisible Chronic Illness Week
People in chronic pain tend to be invisible -- What does that mean?
September is National Pain Awareness Month
HIPAA and Your Medical Records - You Have Rights!
About's Headaches editor, Teri Robert is a patient advocate. Very often the articles she writes have applications wider than her topic alone. With the subject of back and...read more
Understanding the Low Back
The largest vertebrae are those that make up the low back. Why? To answer this question, you can think of the spinal column as analogous to a stack...read more
How To Take Personal Responsibility For Chronic Pain
Chronic pain does not behave according to the same rules as acute pain. Finding the cause of chronic pain can be difficult or impossible. Because chronic pain is elusive, often the patient is discounted or
compromised in the process of diagnosis and treatment. It might take a patient months, if not years of doctors' visits to get a definitive diagnosis. Worse, the patient may be told that the pain is "all in your head",
and be advised to "just deal with it". This article offers suggestions on how to effectively take responsibility yourself.
Botulinum Toxin A Not Effective for Myofascial Pain
Treatment with botulinum toxin A (BTXA) does not appear to be useful for chronic myofascial pain in the shoulder and arm.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Types of Neck Injuries
Some neck injuries are just bothersome, while others can be life-changing. This article provides general classifications and treatments of neck injuries.
Pramipexole May Decrease Fibromyalgia Symptoms
In a randomized trial, this dopamine 3 receptor agonist improved scores on assessments of pain, fatigue, function, and global status and was safe and well tolerated.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Daily Back and Neck Care Tips
Sign up and receive a free back care tip via e-mail every day! Tips will be on a variety of topics such as back pain, neck pain, chronic pain, prevention,...read
more
Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine Levels Low in Patients With Widespread Chronic Pain
The transcription and expression of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10 appear to be reduced in patients with fibromyalgia and other chronic widespread pain conditions, a group of physicians in Germany report.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Peripheral Nerve Trauma Causes Chronic Pain by Protein Kinase G Activation
Chronic pain caused by peripheral nerve injury or inflammation is mediated by activation of protein kinase G (PKG) transcription, which in turn leads to long-term hyperexcitability, according to the results of
an animal study conducted by researchers at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University in New York.
Reuters Health Information 2006
IV Acyclovir Plus Oral Valacyclovir Helpful in Postherpetic Neuralgia
A two-week course of intravenous acyclovir followed by oral valacyclovir for a month helps most patients with postherpetic neuralgia, according to results of a phase I/II study published in the July Archives
of Neurology.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Multiple Sclerosis
Statins May Help in MS by Curbing Leukocyte Migration Across Blood-Brain Barrier
Statins reduce the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and restrict the migration of inflammatory leukocytes across it, and could thus be beneficial in multiple sclerosis, according to a report from
Canada in the July Annals of Neurology.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Ten Tips for Preventing Back Pain
Preventing back pain may be the simplest way to deal with it. There are many things that can be done to prevent back pain. Here are 10 of them...
How to Do a Pelvic Tilt
Pelvic tilts are great for low back problems due to poor posture and muscle atrophy, and provide a starting point for spinal stabilization exercise programs.
Therapy Insight: Fibromyalgia---Different Type of Pain Needing A Different Type of Treatment
This Review describes a multimodal approach to treating this central pain syndrome, using neuroactive drugs that modulate sensory processing.
Nat Clin Pract Rheumatol 2(7) 2006
Tips for Maintaining an Already Healthy Spine
Simple things can work wonders when it comes to maintaining an already healthy spine. This is called preventative maintenance, and its equivalent is an old saying you may have heard: "An ounce of prevention is
worth a pound of cure."
Causes of Poor Posture
Poor posture is a strong contributor to back pain, due to inherent muscle imbalance associated with it.
Advances in Neuropathic Pain
From APS 2006: Read reports of interest about neuropathic pain.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2006
Pediatric Pain Highlights
From APS 2006: Read about new advances in pediatric pain.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2006
Advances in the Pharmacologic Treatment of Chronic and Breakthrough Pain
From APS 2006: Read about new data in the treatment of chronic and breakthrough pain.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 2006
Coxibs Versus Combination NSAID and PPI Therapy for Chronic Pain: An Exploration of the Risks, Benefits, and Costs
Learn about studies qualitatively that compare the risks and benefits of cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors relative to an alternative therapy of a nonselective nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug combined with a
proton-pump inhibitor and circumstances when coxibs may be appropriate.
Ann Pharmacother 40(6) 2006
Assessing Pain Intensity in Older Adults
Learn about the reliability and validity of self-assessment and observational pain scales in older populations with and without dementia.
Geriatrics Aging 9(6) 2006
Navigating Decisions in Neuropathic Pain
Explore the underlying mechanisms of neuropathic pain, and learn about the latest pharmacologic options for treating patients with postherpetic neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy.
Pain Assessment in the Nonverbal Patient: Position Statement With Clinical Practice Recommendations
Can you effectively manage pain in the elderly with advanced dementia, infants and preverbal toddlers, and intubated and/or unconscious patients? Learn more here.
Pain Manag Nurs 7(2) 2006
Spinal Stimulation Relieves Pain in Patients With Lower-Limb Ischemia
Spinal cord stimulation reduces pain and increases quality of life in hemodialysis patients with critical lower-limb ischemia, according to Italian researchers.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Alternative Medicine for Back and Neck Pain
Alternative medicine is big business these days. While "Buyer Beware" is always a good thing to take shopping with you, many alt med techniques have proven to be quite effective in some cases.
Self-Care & Back and Neck Pain - New ECourse
Interested in finding ways you can take care of your pain yourself? Hot off the press, is my new 6-week course that offers techniques, tips and ideas for taking charge of your pain. Caution - this may be
self-empowering! Please note, the contents of the ecourse are general in nature and not meant in anyway to provide diagnosis or prescription. If you have a medical condition or injury, please seek your doctor's
approval before trying the techniques presented.
DEA vs Effective Chronic Pain Treatment
A recent issue of Pain Medicine examines issues of balance between the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) duty to combat drug abuse and physicians' responsibility to treat chronic pain. What do you think
is the current state of affairs regarding this balance? To vote or view results of the poll, click on the title above.
May 10, 2006 — The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved safety labeling revisions to advise of the increased risk for toxicity associated with use of
amoxicillin in elderly patients and others with impaired renal function; the potential for positive opiate screening results in patients receiving ofloxacin oral therapy; the risk for fetal harm associated with use of
divalproex sodium-coated particles in capsules during pregnancy; and the risk for hyperammonemia with or without encephalopathy in patients treated with divalproex sodium who receive concurrent topiramate therapy.
Amoxicillin (Amoxil) May Be Linked to Risk for Increased Toxicity...
On January 26, the FDA approved safety labeling revisions for amoxicillin capsules, tablets, chewable tablets, and powder for oral suspension (Amoxil, made by GlaxoSmithKline) to warn of the increased
potential for toxic reactions associated with its use in elderly patients.
Although an analysis of data from a study of 1811 patients (15% aged 61 years or older; 7% aged 71 years or older) and clinical experience have not identified differences between elderly and younger
patients with respect to response to amoxicillin therapy, a greater sensitivity to the drug among older individuals cannot be ruled out.
Because amoxicillin is excreted substantially by the kidney, patients with impaired renal function may be at increased risk for toxic reactions. The FDA notes that elderly patients are more likely to
have decreased renal function and caution should be used when administering amoxicillin in this population. Monitoring of renal function during therapy should also be considered.
According to the FDA, severely impaired patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of less than 30 mL/minute should not receive the 875-mg tablet. Patients with a GFR between 10- and 30 mL/minute
should receive 250 or 500 mg (depending on infection severity) every 12 hours. In patients with a GFR of 10 mL/minute or less and those receiving hemodialysis, the dosing interval be extended to 24 hours.
Amoxicillin is indicated for the treatment of infections due to susceptible (only beta-lactamase–negative) strains of designated microorganisms. Applicable conditions include ear, nose, and throat
infections; genitourinary tract infections, skin-skin structure infections; lower respiratory tract infections; and gonorrhea. The drug is also indicated for use with clarithromycin and lansoprazole to eradicate
Helicobacter pylori infection, thereby reducing the risk for duodenal ulcer recurrence.
Ofloxacin (Floxin) Therapy May Cause False-Positive Results on Opiate Screening
On January 20, the FDA approved safety labeling revisions for ofloxacin tablets (Floxin, made by Ortho McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc) to warn of an interaction with laboratory diagnostic testing associated
with its use.
According to the FDA, some quinolones, such as ofloxacin, may produce false-positive urine screening results for opiates when using commercially available immunoassay kits. Confirmation of positive
opiate screens by more specific methods is therefore advised.
Ofloxacin tablets are indicated for the treatment of various infections caused by susceptible Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains in adults aged 18 years and older. Applications include
acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis; uncomplicated skin-skin structure infections; nongonococcal urethritis and cervicitis; mixed urethral and cervical infections; acute pelvic inflammatory disease;
uncomplicated cystitis; and complicated urinary tract infections.
Divalproex Sodium Capsules (Depakote) May Be Linked to Risk for Fetal Harm
On January 11, the FDA approved safety labeling revisions for divalproex sodium-coated particles in capsules (Depakote, made by Abbott Laboratories, Inc) to advise of the risk for teratogenicity
associated with their use during pregnancy and against concomitant use of topiramate.
Divalproex sodium is a stable coordination compound comprised of sodium valproate and valproic acid in a 1:1 molar relationship.
Because valproate and valproic acid are linked to a potential risk for neural tube defects, its therapeutic benefit in women of childbearing age should be carefully weighed against the risk for injury
to the fetus, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have estimated the risk for spina bifida in children exposed to these drugs during the gestation
period to be approximately 1% to 2%.
Although other congenital anomalies (eg, craniofacial defects, cardiovascular malformations, and anomalies involving various body systems) have also been reported, their incidence remains unclear.
The FDA notes that consideration of divalproex sodium teratogenic potential is particularly important when contemplating its use for the treatment of a spontaneously reversible condition (eg, migraine)
that is not usually associated with permanent injury or death.
The FDA also warned that concomitant administration of valproic acid and topiramate (Topamax, made by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc) has been linked to a risk for hyperammonemia with or without
encephalopathy in patients who have tolerated either therapy alone.
Clinical symptoms often include acute alterations in level of consciousness and/or cognitive function with lethargy or vomiting. In most cases, symptoms and signs abated with discontinuation of either
drug.
According to the FDA, the adverse event is not related to a pharmacokinetic interaction, and it is unclear whether topiramate monotherapy is associated with hyperammonemia. Although not studied, it is
possible that concomitant use of the drugs may exacerbate existing defects or unmask deficiencies in susceptible persons. Patients with inborn errors of metabolism or reduced hepatic mitochondrial activity may
therefore be at increased risk for hyperammonemia.
The FDA recommends that hyperammonemic encephalopathy be considered in patients who develop unexplained lethargy, vomiting, or changes in mental status; measurement of ammonia levels is recommended in
these cases.
Divalproex sodium is indicated as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy in the treatment of complex partial seizures that occur either in isolation or in association with other types of seizures. It is
indicated as sole and adjunctive seizure therapy for simple and complex absence seizures and adjunctively in patients with multiple seizure types that include absence seizures. Divalproex sodium is not approved by the
FDA for the treatment of migraines.
Topiramate is indicated as initial monotherapy for partial onset or primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients aged 10 years and older; as adjunctive therapy for partial onset or primary
generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 to 16 years; for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients aged 2 years and older; and for migraine
prophylaxis in adults.
http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/SAFETY/2006/jan06.htm
Challenging Perceptions in Chronic Pain
Review the clinical, social, and economic costs of chronic pain and how to treat it with medications such as the COX-2 selective inhibitors.
Fentanyl Effervescent Buccal Tablets in Patients With Chronic Pain
Learn about the features of fentanyl effervescent buccal tablets (FEBT) which are currently in development for chronic pain.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 8(1) 2006
The Use of IV Steroid Injection: IV steroid injection is a treatment used when a herniated disk causes severe sciatica. The IV injection reduces pain and inflammation.
Sciatica is a common condition affecting around 40% of adults at some point in their lives. It is marked by pain down the leg, but might have one of several causes.
About the Study: Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston looked at the benefits of using an IV steroid therapy for pain and inflammation in sciatica cases.
The sciatica cases they looked at were caused by disk herniations or bulging disks that caused
pressure on a nerve root, which in turn caused leg pain. 65 patients were involved in the study. One group of patients recieved
methylprednisolone, while the other received a placebo.
Pain Reduction Measurements: The researchers found that the improvement in pain offered by the IV treatment was minimal. Specifically, on a 100-point scale, patients reported
an improvement of 6 points.
Length of Pain Relief : Furthermore, the pain was back in a few days. Researchers compared pain scores of patients recieving the injections with patients who received a
placebo. After a few days, their pain scores were about equal.
Conclusions: Researchers concluded that IV steroid injections are not the best solution for sciatica.
Bibliography:
Intravenous Steroids of Little Help in Acute Sciatica. Newswise Press Release February 10, 2006. Retrieved from: http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/517944/?sc-dwtr. February 10, 2006.
Acupressure May Be More Effective Than Physical Therapy at Relieving Low Back Pain
In a randomized study, acupressure was effective in reducing low back pain in terms of disability, pain scores, and functional status for up to 6 months.
Medscape Medical News 2006
Chronic Pain Linked to Spontaneously Firing C-Fiber Pain Receptors
Chronic neuropathic and inflammatory pain likely result from spontaneous firing of intact C-fiber nociceptors, according to a report in the January 25th issue of The Journal of Neuroscience.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Viewpoint: Pain Management Often Inadequate
A new study reveals a wide variety of prescribing patterns that can leave patients vulnerable to unnecessary pain.
Medscape Pharmacists 7(1) 2006
A Pilot Study Evaluating Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Massage for the Management of
Chronic Pain
The authors show that it is feasible to study MBSR and massage in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain and that MBSR may be more effective and longer-lasting for mood improvement while massage may be
more effective for reducing pain.
J Gen Intern Med 20(12) 2005
The Impact of Whiplash
The effects of whiplash are influenced by the laws of physics. Researchers disagree, however, upon the effects of whiplash when the victim's head is turned at the moment of impact.
Novel Aldose Reductase Inhibitor Controls Diabetic Neuropathy
The aldose reductase inhibitor ranirestat (AS-3201) has long-term beneficial effects on peripheral nerve function in patients with diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy, according to results of a 60-week study.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Transdermal Fentanyl Provides Safe, Effective Opioid Alternative for Children
A single-arm, open label trial, conducted at 66 international centers, has demonstrated the safety and tolerability of transdermal fentanyl in children with chronic pain. The agent also showed sustained
efficacy during a study extension period, investigators report in the December issue of Cancer.
Reuters Health Information 2006
Exercises for Low Back Pain Should Often Match the Patient's Directional Preference
Patients with low back pain should be trained in exercise that matches their directional preference, according to the results of a multicenter, randomized trial published in the Dec. 1 issue of Spine.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Consciously Controlling Brain Activation May Reduce Pain Perception
Using real-time functional MRI (rtfMRI), subjects can be trained to consciously control activation of localized regions within the brain, and as a result control their perception of pain, results of a pilot
study suggest.
Reuters Health Information 2005
 Pain Meds --- Safely!
For 10 tips on using pain medication safely, Read on......read more
Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy May Be Ineffective for Back Pain
Intradiscal electrothermal therapy (IDET) is not better than sham for chronic discogenic low back pain, (CDLBP) according to the results of a randomized, double-blind trial reported in the Nov. 1 issue of
Spine.
Medscape Medical News 2005
COX-2 Inhibitors and Other NSAIDs Increase Mortality in Acute MI Patients
Post-MI patients should not use COX-2 inhibitors and they should use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs only at low doses, according to a large analysis of registry data.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Transdermal Fentanyl Effective for Pediatric Pain Patients
A study shows that a transdermal patch delivering the opioid fentanyl is a safe and effective way to control moderate to severe chronic pain in children aged 2 and older with previous exposure to opioid
therapy.
Reuters Health Information 2005
The Recognition and Management of Noncancer Breakthrough Pain
Breakthrough pain is an important clinical problem that has not been well characterized in noncancer patients with chronic pain, and questions remain about appropriate treatment. In this archived Webcast from
the live event that was held on Monday October 31, Drs. Donald Taylor and Lynn Webster discuss the prevalence and characteristics of breakthrough pain in noncancer patients and its management.
How do I get rid of this pain?
My Pain Management Overview offers a collection of articles, resources, news updates and more about pain management from a variety of approaches. Explore and choose the best one(s) for you.
Ours is the Decade of Chronic Pain Control and Research
Did you know that we are in the midst of the Decade of Pain Control and Research? About's Headaches and Migranes editor has the scoop, along with information about chronic pain to help build awareness of this
issue....read more
Chronic Arthritis Impairs Pain Control Mechanisms
Murine studies indicate that chronic arthritis downregulates the expression of receptors that play a key role in pain control, Canadian researchers report in the October issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Reducing the Public Health Burden of Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia
Learn about the epidemiology, natural history, and clinical manifestations of herpes zoster, examine the effects of herpes zoster on older patients, and evaluate vaccine-based preventive strategies currently in
clinical development.
Preemptive Pudendal Nerve Blockade Provides No Additional Benefit
Pudendal nerve blockade administered prior to transvaginal pelvic reconstructive surgery did not diminish postoperative pain intensity or the consumption of narcotic analgesia.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Running May Reduce Muscle Pain Associated With Aging
In a prospective, longitudinal study, physically active seniors had about 25% less musculoskeletal pain than did more sedentary controls.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Analgesic Use Does Not Raise Hypertension Risk
Regular analgesic use does not seem to increase the risk of subsequent hypertension, according to a report in the September 12th issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Reuters Health Information 2005
An Approach to the Evaluation of Peripheral Neuropathies
This article presents an approach to the often challenging clinical evaluation of peripheral neuropathies that is based on a structured assessment with a series of yes/no questions.
Semin Neurol 25(2) 2005
Over-The-Counter Pain Killers and Women
The Nurses' Health Study at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston was released this week and indicates that daily long term use of over-the-counter pain
killers by women increases their risk of high blood pressure. Aceaminophen and Ibuprofen were especially implicated in the results, while asprin seems to be safe.
Read about the study.
The Healing Powers of Ice
What can you do to reduce pain, and contain the effects of an acute injury? Generally, ice is recommended immediately after a trauma. Ice also works well for
many in later healing phases of an injury. About's Orthopedics Editor, Jonathon Cluett, MD offers the correct technique to ice an injury.
Study Shows a Gene that Enhances Mobility in Seniors
"Use it or lose it" is a commonly heard phrase, and pertains well to exercise as key in maintaining health as we age. Well, a recent study showed that some exercising seniors are granted extra
help in the process of...read more
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The First Resorbable Implant for Neck Surgery
Yesterday Medtronic, a leading medical device manufacturer, announced it has a new type of implant on the market. This implant, called the Mystique ™ is resorbable. What this means is that once
the bones have fused, the implant dissolves. The...read more
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A Vioxx Timeline
Well, the first case involving Vioxx and its cardiovascular side effects have been decided. About's Arthritis editor, Carol Eustice, has written a thorough and provocative article detailing the
case. I thought it might be useful for you to have a...read more |
A Vioxx Timeline
Well, the first case involving Vioxx and its cardiovascular side effects have been decided. About's Arthritis editor, Carol Eustice, has written a thorough and provocative article
detailing the case. I thought it might be useful for you to have a
timeline of events leading up to the case. Read more...
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One Way to Avoid Neck Pain
Everything in the body is connected to everything else. This means when one part moves, there is a chain reaction, or rippling effect throughout structures adjacent to it. Keeping that in mind,
the shoulder joint is related to the neck and might affect the amount of felt pain. Read more...
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The Use of Implants in Neck Surgery
This week Medtronic, a leading medical device manufacturer, announced it has a new type of implant on the market. This implant, called the Mystique ™ is resorbable. What this means is that once
the bones have fused, the implant dissolves. The patient is no longer stuck with the device in his or her neck for the rest of their life. The Mystique ™ is also transparent, making it easier
for doctors to see what they are doing when they perform the procedure, as well as to read the post operative X-rays. Ane, the Mystique can be shaped to fit the patient's unique bone anatomy.
Here is some background information about neck surgery and implants:
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from Anne Asher
Greetings! This week: Prolotherapy Neck Injuries What to do if you are Involved in a Car Crash (I hope you're not!!!) To Your Health -- Anne |
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 In the Spotlight |
Prolotherapy
A reader wrote to me about my latest article on injection therapy, reminding me that there is a 5th, highly effective type of injection called Prolotherapy. Prolotherapy is used for weakened
ligaments. Although I did not mention prolotherapy in my...read more
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Common Types of Neck Injuries
Neck injuries can be broadly classified by type of tissue and severity of injury. I have made a brief but informative overview of the types of neck injury so you can begin to discern what you
may be feeling. Keep in mind that if you are experiencing symptoms, it is advisable to have them checked by a qualified physician, as this information is just that, information. It is not meant
as a diagnosis or treatment in any way.
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How to Protect Yourself Legally and Medically in the Case of a Car Accident
Knowing what to do in the case of a car accident is one of those things you wished you had investigated before the event. Unfortunately, most of us are not properly motivated to learn how to
protect ourselves legally and...read more |
Meditation and Chronic Pain
Many people use the practice of meditation to reduce, minimize or eliminate their chronic pain. This week, About's Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Fibromyalgia editor, Pamela Rice Hahn, offers some suggestions to try when
meditating in her article, Meditation and Pain...read more
Changes in the Meaning of Pain with the Use of Guided Imagery
Interest in the use of guided imagery for chronic pain has increased over the past two decades. In this study, the authors determined how verbal descriptions of pain changed with the use of a guided imagery
technique.
Pain Manag Nurs 6(2) 2005
 Short-Term Acupuncture May Decrease Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
In a randomized study, pain and joint function improved more with eight weeks of acupuncture than with minimal acupuncture or no acupuncture, but the benefit decreased over time.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Several Drugs Can Reduce Postherpetic Neuralgia Pain, Review Finds
Results of a meta-analysis suggest that tricyclic antidepressants, "strong" opioids, and gabapentinoids are effective in relieving pain of postherpetic neuralgia, British investigators report.
Reuters Health Information 2005
 Long-term Effect of a Combined Exercise and Motivational Program on the Level of Disability of Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
In this study, a combined exercise and motivation program was superior to a standard exercise program in patients with chronic and recurrent low back pain.
Spine 29(9) 2005
The Lumbar Spine
The low back is located in the physical center of the body. Because of this its responsibilities are great. All forces of motion transmit to the low back. The spine in the low back area is built to take the load and
support the body in movement. Walk through The Lumbar Spine to see how all this works...
3 Non-Invasive for Head and Neck Pain
Sometimes simple is better. This can be true when headaches and neck and shoulder pain are caused by tight muscles. A few simple, focused non-invasive techniques may helpful in melting away the tension.
Biovail's Oral Pain Drug Wins FDA Approval
TORONTO (Reuters) May 06 - Biovail Corp., Canada's largest publicly traded drugmaker, said on Friday its oral version of the painkiller tramadol had won approval from the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration.
The approval for Tramadol ODT in a 50-mg dose comes about four months after an FDA request to resolve labeling issues, including packaging content and format for the product's carton.
The drugmaker said it is in late-stage discussions with potential partners to commercialize the drug, which is made using Biovail technology that helps those who have difficulty swallowing tablets or
who do not always have access to water.
Related Links
Migraine
Ergot Compound Not as Effective as Triptans for Migraine
The results of a systematic review suggest that dihydroergotamine monotherapy is not an effective treatment for acute migraine headache. However, treatment efficacy is improved when it is combined with an
antiemetic.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Pain Management
Stretching, Strengthening Exercise Most Effective in Treating Chronic Low Back Pain
Supervised programs that include stretching and muscle-strengthening exercises are more likely than other types of therapy to relieve chronic nonspecific low back pain and improve function, according to
meta-analyses reported in the May 3rd issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
 Universal Precautions in Pain Medicine: The Treatment of Chronic Pain With or Without the Disease of Addiction
The authors argue that it makes sense to apply a "Universal Precautions" approach to all pain patients, especially those who are considered for opioids, to improve their quality of life.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 7(1) 2005
24th Annual Meeting of APS
Toward Solving the Puzzle of Pediatric Pain
From APS 2005: New studies examine the influence of anxiety, anticipation, and parents on a child's experience of pain, with sometimes surprising results.
Understanding and Managing Pain in Adults
From APS 2005: The problem of opiate abuse continues to drive research to enhance understanding of this complicated issue.
Pain Management
An Holistic Approach to Wound Pain in Patients With Chronic Wounds
Within wound care management, care-givers must be careful to ensure that the patient is the focal point of care, with all aspects of pain management considered.
Wounds 17(3) 2005
Morphine Plus Gabapentin May Be Better for Neuropathic Pain Than Each Drug Alone
A randomized trial showed that the combination achieved better analgesia at lower doses of each drug than either as a single agent.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Instant Poll
The Schiavo Debate
In a Medscape Instant Poll that launched March 22, 72% of respondents said they favor removing Terri Schiavo's feeding tube. But 27% said they oppose removing it. As of March 24, a total of 1,008 respondents
had taken part in this poll. To vote and view the full results of the poll, which ends on April 5, click on the title above.
The Current State of Pain Management: An Expert Interview With Scott M. Fishman, MD
At the 21st Annual Meeting of AAPM, Medscape spoke to the academy's incoming president, Scott M. Fishman, MD, about the current state of pain management.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 7(1) 2005
Powerful Pain Medicine a Growing U.S. Crime Problem
Powerful painkillers like OxyContin, widely known as "hillbilly heroin," have emerged as a major crime problem in the United States, with many dealers and abusers obtaining them over the Internet.
Reuters Health Information 2005
European Experts Back Lilly, Roche Drugs
A panel of European experts on Thursday backed the use of Eli Lilly and Co's drug duloxetine, also known as Cymbalta, for the treatment of pain associated with diabetes.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Post-traumatic Pain
Chronic Post-Traumatic Neck and Head Pain
Structural and pathophysiological factors play a part in the etiology of some patients with this type of pain, but other factors affect expectation, amplification, and attribution of symptoms.
Headache 45(1) 2005
Survey Finds Pain Often Affects Children and Teenagers
Most children and adolescents commonly experience pain such as headache or gastric discomfort, which often restricts daily living activities, according to a study conducted in Germany. The findings "underscore the
relevance of pediatric pain for public health policy, the investigators say.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Migraines Relieved by Treatment of Patent Foramen Ovale
Repair of a patent foramen ovale relieves migraine symptoms in approximately three quarters of patients who have migraine, according to two new studies in the February 15th issue of the Journal of the American
College of Cardiology.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Vagus Nerve Stimulation May Relieve Chronic Migraine
Intractable chronic migraine and cluster headaches may be relieved by vagus nerve stimulation, according to a New York City-based investigator.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Metoclopramide Effective Emergency Department Treatment for Migraines
Metoclopramide is as effective as sumatriptan for the emergency department treatment of migraine headache, according to researchers.
Reuters Health Information 2005
For Pain Management, Doctors Prescribe Caution
By MARY DUENWALD
Pain management experts said they expected Celebrex, Vioxx and Bextra to be prescribed much less readily.
Headache and Pain
Central Pain Disorders Linked to Abnormal Internal/external Discrimination
Patients with central pain disorders, such as somatoform pain disorder and fibromyalgia, appear to have abnormalities in the self-monitoring mechanism that allows the discrimination of internally versus externally
produced stimuli, new research shows.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Acute Low Back Pain and Decreased Straight Leg Raising May Suggest Disc Prolapse With Central Anterior Thecal Compression
Disc prolapses in patients having back pain only vs patients with leg pain only were more likely to be central, smaller, and at a higher lumbar level and to compress the theca only.
Medscape Medical News 2005
New Study Questions Benefit of Trigeminal Radiosurgery for Cluster Headache
Gamma knife treatment -- that is, trigeminal nerve radiosurgery -- for refractory chronic cluster headache results in a low rate of pain cessation and a high rate of nerve damage, French investigators report. They
say the treatment is not appropriate in this population.
Reuters Health Information 2005
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
Local Steroid Injection Initially May Be Better Than Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The first randomized trial showed that symptomatic relief was better with injection, and both injection and surgical treatments were equally effective at one year.
Medscape Medical News 2005
Benefit of Ribose in a Patient With Fibromyalgia
A 37-year old woman had daily episodes of intense muscoloskeletal pain and stiffness, mental cloudiness, bouts of diarrhea, and sleep disturbance.
From Medscape Neurology/Neurosurgery
Guest Editorial: January 2005: Stem Cell Research and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Are stem cells a dream come true for those with ALS? Or are they something less? The answer to both questions may be "yes."
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 7(1) 2005
From Medscape's Other Journal Partners
The Impact of a Worksite Migraine Intervention Program on Work Productivity, Productivity Costs, and Non-Workplace Impairment
This industry-sponsored study looks at the value of a workplace migraine intervention program, which focused on migraine prevention and rizatriptan-based symptomatic treatment.
Curr Med Res Opin 20(11) 2004
Pain Management Among Older People in Need of Help With Activities of Daily Living
The elderly need careful evaluations regarding the cause of their pain and the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
Pain Manag Nurs 5(4) 2004
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
American Academy of Neurology Issues Guidelines for Pediatric Migraine
The new practice parameter addresses pharmacologic treatment and prevention of migraine in children.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Petasites hybridus Root (Butterbur) May Be Effective for Preventing Migraines
In a randomized trial, Petasites extract, 75 mg, twice daily was more effective than placebo, but a dosage of 50 mg, twice daily, was not significantly more effective than placebo.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Surgery Might Benefit Patients With Migraine Responding to Botulinum Toxin A Injection
Based on a randomized trial, surgical deactivation of migraine trigger sites may eliminate or significantly reduce migraine symptoms, although additional studies are needed.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Exercises for Low Back Pain Should Often Match the Patient's Directional Preference
In a randomized trial, this type of exercise significantly and rapidly decreased pain and medication use and improved in all other outcomes.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Migraine a Risk Factor for Stroke
Migraine is an independent risk factor for stroke, suggest results of a meta-analysis of observational studies reported online this week in the British Medical Journal.
Reuters Health Information 2004
FDA Clears Advanced Neuromodulation Systems
Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc. on Friday said U.S. regulators had approved its rechargeable spinal cord stimulation systems, used to control pain.
Reuters Health Information 2004
From Medscape's Other Journal Partners
When Can Successful Migraine Prophylaxis Be Discontinued?
When, whether, and how to discontinue successful migraine prophylaxis has received far less attention and study than the question of when to begin migraine prophylaxis.
Headache 44(10) 2004
Neurobiology of Specific Language Impairment
A better understanding of the neurobiology of specific language impairment is critical for the rational development of therapeutic strategies to treat this common disorder.
J Child Neurol 19(7) 2004
Pain Assessment and Management in Aging
Read this comprehensive review of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies to manage pain in the elderly.
Online J Issues Nurs 9(3) 2004
Effervescent Aspirin Effective for Migraine
The results of a study published in the November issue of Cephalalgia suggest that 1000 mg effervescent acetylsalicylic acid is as effective as 50 mg sumatriptan or 400 mg ibuprofen for the treatment of migraine
attacks.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Chronic Back Pain Linked to Gray Matter Loss
The presence of chronic back pain is associated with a loss of gray matter similar to that seen in the normal aging process, new research suggests.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Just a quick message to invite you to visit our website to read our November
2004 health newsletter!
AMPA Receptors Play Key Role in Chronic Inflammatory Pain
The calcium-permeable AMPA receptors that are abundant in the spinal dorsal horn appear to play a critical role in mediating chronic inflammatory pain, according to a report in the November 18th issue of Neuron.
Reuters Health Information 2004
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and greatest health news! You can also send us your health-related
questions, read past health newsletters, and of course, browse through
hundreds of pages of additional informative chiropractic and health-related
information.
This Month's Newsletter includes:
* Chiropractic Adjustments Reduce Pain
* Top Ten Back Breaking Jobs
* Adolescents And The Persistence Of Back Pain
* Herbs Help In Dementia
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excellent way to show someone how much you care!
We thank you for allowing us to share this information with you and hope
your day is filled with health.
May health be yours,
Dr. Marc F. Wilkerson and staff
Phenazone Useful Against Acute Migraine Attacks
Phenazone is safe and effective treatment for acute migraine attacks, German researchers report in a study published in the October issue of Cephalalgia.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Botulinum Toxin A Not Effective for Migraine Prophylaxis
Botulinum toxin A is not an effective prophylactic treatment for migraine, the results of a small study, published in the October issue of Cephalalgia, suggest.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Despite Warnings, Drug Giant Took Long Path to Vioxx Recall
By THE NEW YORK TIMES
A review of Merck's handling of Vioxx suggests that actions the company took - and did not take - may have affected the health of potentially thousands of patients.
Transdermal Fentanyl Reduces Cortisol Levels in Patients With Non-Cancer Pain
Serum cortisol concentrations appear to be elevated in patients with non-cancer pain, the results of a study published in the September issue of the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management suggest. And treatment
with transdermal fentanyl (TDF) reduces cortisol levels, which correlate with reduction in pain.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Duloxetine Seen Effective for Fibromyalgia
Eli Lilly and Co.'s new antidepressant Cymbalta (duloxetine) was shown in a small clinical trial to be effective in reducing pain in women with fibromyalgia, researchers report.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Paroxetine Controlled Release May Relieve Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Treated patients reported more improvement in disease symptoms than did those receiving placebo.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Low-Dose Ketamine May Be Helpful for Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome
In a retrospective review, infusion of subanesthetic doses was effective, but more studies are needed.
Medscape Medical News 2004
From Medscape Neurology/Neurosurgery
Pain Management -- Beyond the Basics: Neurostimulation and Pain Control
In this review, gain an advanced understanding of neurostimulation techniques for the management of painful conditions.
Improving Outcomes in Acute Pain Management: Optimizing Patient Selection
Which patients are appropriate candidates for newer, fast-acting agents?
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 6(2) 2004
Many Patients With "Sinus" Headache Found to Have Migraine-Type Headache
The prevalence of migraine is high in patients with self-reported or physician-diagnosed "sinus" headache.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Human Cells Biosynthesize Morphine
Human cells can synthesize morphine from amino acid precursors, using much the same biosynthetic route as that established for the opium poppy plant, German scientists report.
Reuters Health Information 2004
New Strategies for Managing Acute Pain Episodes in Patients With Chronic Pain
Breakthrough pain is a valid type of acute pain that occurs commonly in patients with persistent pain, and it has to be managed appropriately.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 6(2) 2004
Pain Management, August 2004
Dr. Orly Avitzur reviews the latest data on frovatriptan for menstrual migraine, COX-2 inhibitors for postoperative pain, placebos & pain treatment, alternative treatments for low back pain, & more.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 6(2) 2004
Duloxetine Effective in Fibromyalgia
In a randomized trial, this antidepressant was effective for the treatment of fibromyalgia with or without major depressive disorder.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Pain and Sleep
Andrew Jamieson, MD, explores the relationships between pain and sleep.
Medscape Primary Care 6(2) 2004
Is Politics Good for Medicine?
"I was very disappointed that politics was brought into the article concerning 'The American President and Electronic Medical Records.'"
Medscape General Medicine 6(3) 2004
Patient as Gatekeeper: Electronic Medical Records
The prospect of online access to our most personal information sounds somewhat disconcerting, and may prove to be a barrier to participation.
Medscape General Medicine 6(3) 2004
A Dissenting Voice Regarding Mandated Electronic Medical Records
After reading recent manifestos about electronic medical records from President Bush, US Department of Health and Human Services officials, and others, I am profoundly disturbed.
Medscape General Medicine 6(3) 2004
Editor's Response
Dr. George Lundberg responds to readers' Letters to the Editor regarding one of his MedGenMed Webcast Video Editorials from June 6, 2004 -- "The American President and Electronic Medical Records."
Medscape General Medicine 6(3) 2004
Legislation, Policy, Practice Management
FDA Approvals: Adderall XR for Adults, Topamax for Migraines, and Others
The FDA has approved an amphetamine/dextroamphetamine combination (Adderall XR) for use in adults, topiramate (Topamax) for migraine prophylaxis, a new dosing algorithm for radiation therapy (AAA), and two kings
of pentetate (Ca-DTPA and Zn-DTPA) for internal radiation contamination.
Medscape Medical News 2004
AN ONLINE RESOURCE FOR PATIENTS, PHYSICIANS, AND CAREGIVERS OF CHRONIC PAIN PATIENTS
Chronic Pain Treatment
Marijuana Reduces Chronic Pain
Sonnet 21
Hello to all who visit my web site, this is Webmaster T. if you've been following the web page on work comp, you probably understand that I have been doing my best to make the system work. I fell off a table at work, and landed on a cement floor. I impacted with my right shoulder and neck. In the process I crunched my central nervous system. The time for healing has long past, but the pain I live with 24/7 is a
testament that the human body and mind can endure. . . by faith.
I would not want anyone to have to go through what I have to deal with. My nerve damage races
throughout my body, causing me to experience pain spikes, difficulty breathing, and a burning acid like feeling felt in my hands, back, arms and spinal cord. Thank God for
voice software and my caretaker Rex. Without his kind help and support you guys would not be able to watch this site continue to develop and grow. However, this page is
dedicated to those who suffer from pain.
I have
Neuropathic Pain. At least, that’s what the doctor calls it. I consider it an ** evil spirit that I have to learn to live with.
For those of you optimists who hope that things will get better, when you lose a hand it does not grow back, if they find a cure for my nerve damage I will surely be the first to step up and say hallelujah!
Anyway, check out the site above and if you want to read about one of my days, I have left a pain journal entry below this essay, for you to read. Good luck with your
problems and never surrender!
** A little more info on this site, I have transitioned from Christian to a more open minded person. I do not feel I should delete old thoughts, as that was
what I actually believed at the time. As for Chronic pain being an evil spirit, I no longer believe that. it is a serious condition, and you will have people try and convince you
that your hypoglycemic or some other system that makes sense to them. It is not important that you convince people what you suffer from as long as in your heart, you know the truth. I find it difficult to explain to
people, and I only share my pain with those who understand and can accept my reality. Do yourself a favor and focus more on controlling the pain then trying to get people to accept your new reality. The more you focus
on doing what is best for you, the sooner you will learn to live with Chronic Pain, and you will find happy times along the way. You will even find love, so you must never give up hope, just do what you can to be
in good control of your pain.
September 7th of 2001
Pain journal
Yesterday, I spent the day in Santa Barbara with my friends. The only activity of the day was a lot of walking, and then we
browsed through books at Borders bookstore. And I spent about six hours riding in a car. This added to the “pain difficulty” of today’s high barometer.
This morning when I awoke, my pain was a 10. It was very
difficult to get out of bed, it seems as the weather has been changing my ability to handle the pain changes. If there is low air pressure in the barometer, my pain levels
is at three or four. If the barometer goes up to 30 and higher my pain increases as the barometer pressure increases. Thirty-one on the barometer I'm at a level 10 pain. I also noticed on these days when the pain is stronger, my diarrhea and urination are very frequent.
Today was one of those days were my pain level did not subside till about 4 PM.
When I looked at the barometer it had gone down to 29. As the air
pressure “pounds per inch” Really does affect my nervous system. The pain will radiate up the head, down both arms into the elbows and hands, the upper chest area becomes
tight and breathing becomes difficult. My lower back is intensely painful and I cannot sit anywhere but only for moments when the barometer is as
it was today “30.12” I have begun to monitor these things to be aware of how weather
effects my level of pain from day-to-day.
I drank a lot of fluids today to replace all I lost from the frequent urination and diarrhea. On nicer days, I have a regular urination and diarrhea. My pain causes me to be hot, sweating, and clammy; as well as, chronically
fatigued.
The Ultram has been working very effectively. However, on days
when the weather causes me to have the most difficulty I take up to 6 Ultram’s “just to endure the pain”. On the other days, I only take three Ultram’s. I have made charts, studied the central nervous system, and realized the pain in my back is at an
Interconnecting neurons area in the middle of my back. It makes sense to me that since the pain travels through the entire nervous system, it sometimes gets overloaded at
that area. The Brachial Plexus from the C7-T2 area of my neck is where the sharp shooting pain originates and travels down the right side of my arm.
Still, both arms are affected with the burning painful sensations, especially in the hands. They become stiff and claw like. It has now been 16 months since my initial work
injury.
Pain Journal June 7th 2002
Nerve Massage May 13th 2003
Nerve Massage A "Semi" cure for Chronic Pain, and Nerve Damage. Nerve Massage
Chronic Pain Journal Update February 5th 2004
Pain Journal Updated April 6th 2004
California Voters Divided on Stem Cell Research
Voters in California are almost evenly divided on a ballot measure that could approve state funding for stem cell research, according to a poll released on Sunday.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Californians Ask Feds to Return Their Marijuana
A group of 38 California medical marijuana patients filed legal motions on Tuesday asking the federal government to give them back their pot worth nearly a million dollars.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
Triptan Use Not Linked With Increased Ischemic Events
Triptan use is not associated with an increased risk of any ischemic events in migraineurs, according to a report published in the July/August issue of Headache.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Gabapentin Helps Reduce Neuropathic Cancer Pain
Gabapentin can improve analgesia in patients receiving systemic opioids for neuropathic cancer pain, European researchers report in the June 15th issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
Frovatriptan Helpful as Miniprophylaxis for Menstrual Migraine
In a randomized trial, more than half of patients using frovatriptan, 2.5 mg, twice daily had no menstruation-associated migraine.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Pain Assessment in Nursing Homes Varies Widely
The flow of information among residents of nursing homes, nursing staff and clinicians is highly variable, investigators report. Their new study findings suggest that using standards outlining the steps in pain
management would optimize the flow of pain information and ultimately reduce pain in these patients.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Neuromuscular Diseases
Ilioinguinal Nerve Transection Increases Postherniorrhaphy Sensory Disturbances
In a randomized trial, cutting the nerve did not affect pain following open inguinal hernia repair, but sensory disturbances significantly increased after nerve transection.
Medscape Medical News 0() 2004
Feature Articles
Managing Chronic Pain: Guidelines for Primary Care Physicians (Archived Web Conference)
In this CME-certified Webcast, learn optimal management of your patients with pain from the perspectives of both a pain specialist and a primary care physician.
Effective Opioid Therapies Across the Spectrum of Chronic Pain
A review the most current information on prevention and management of chronic pain, breakthrough pain options, and addiction issues.
Doctors Write Prescriptions, Drug Company Writes Checks
By GARDINER HARRIS
An investigation has shed light on the system of financial lures that drug companies use to persuade doctors to favor their products.
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
Lidocaine Patch Safe and Effective for Diabetic Neuropathic Pain
The patch reduces pain, improves quality of life, and may allow tapering of other pain medication.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
More Than Half of Older Patients Taking COX-2 Inhibitors Also Take Aspirin
More than half of older patients taking COX-2 inhibitors are also on aspirin, possibly negating the reduction of serious gastrointestinal bleeding touted as a reason for using expensive COX-2s in the first
place, a study sponsored by Express Scripts Inc. found.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Migraines May Be More Common Than Previously Thought
According to findings presented this week at the 46th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Headache Society in Vancouver, British Columbia, 71% of surveyed neurologists reported having at least one
migraine headache at some point in their life.
Reuters Health Information 2004
The Vast Frontier of the Brain
Rohit Bakshi, MD
Ben's Game - Make-a-Wish
Chronic Pain Management Paradigm: Time for a Change?
Traditional vs novel treatment paradigms: Learn more about the management of chronic, nonmalignant and breakthrough pain.
Headache and Other Pain-Related Topics
Risk Factors for Postherpetic Neuralgia Identified
US researchers have identified several factors that are independently linked to an increased risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), suggesting that each may reflect a different mechanism of action. The factors
included the presence of a prodrome and severe acute pain.
Reuters Health Information 2004
From Medscape General Medicine
Helmet-Related, External Compression Headache Among Police Officers in Rio de Janeiro
The external compression headache is classified as a kind of cranial neuralgia because of continued external pressure. This headache also has some peculiar characteristics.
Medscape General Medicine 6(2) 2004
Glycine Receptor Subunit Could Serve as New Analgesic Target
The alpha3 subunit of glycine receptors (GlyR alpha3) appears to play a key role in inflammatory pain sensitization and could serve as new molecular target for analgesic agents, European researchers report.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Pregabalin May Be Helpful in Postherpetic Neuralgia
In a randomized trial, this drug reduced pain and improved sleep and mood disturbances; however, it is not yet approved by the FDA.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Closure of Foramen Ovale May Reduce Frequency of Migraine Headaches
Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) seems to reduce the prevalence and frequency of attacks in patients with migraine, according to two reports in the April 27th issue of Neurology.
Reuters Health Information 2004
Topiramate Is Effective for Migraine Prophylaxis
In a large controlled trial, improvements occurred within the first month of treatment with topiramate 100 or 200 mg per day.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Electroacupuncture Helpful for Tension-Type Headache
In a randomized trial, electroacupuncture to distal points alone was effective.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Coenzyme Q10 May Ward Off Migraine Attacks
Supplement users had half as many attacks and few adverse effects.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Migraine With Aura Linked to Higher Risk of Stroke in Women
The risk was higher in women younger than 55 years.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Endogenous Opioid Function Differs Between Men and Women
Women appear to be more sensitive than men to the effect of endogenous opioid blockade on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical responses to pain, findings of a new study suggest.
Reuters Health Information 2004
NEUROPATHIC PAIN IN SPINAL CORD INJURY: A PROMISING AGENT
Gabapentin was associated with significant relief of neuropathic
pain in this study. Read the news-based CME activity "Gabapentin
Effective in Neuropathic Pain of Spinal Cord Injury," new in the
Pharmacologic Management of Pain Resource Center.
Drug War Facts-Pain Management ~ Mistress C
Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide: Frequently Asked Questions
Physician Group to Release Online Pain Management Text
American Academy of Pain Medicine
In this CME-accredited report, Dr. David Caraway reviews the latest data and research advances in the pathophysiology and clinical
management of pain.
Pain Management, April 2004
In this new journal scan series, Dr. Orly Avitzur reviews data on intrathecal treatments for low back pain, topiramate & migraine
prevention, oral cannabinoids for refractory neuropathic pain, & more.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 6(1) 2004
Medieval Management of Spinal Injuries: Parallels
Between Theodoric of Bologna and Contemporary Spine
Despite modern advances, the basic principles of reduction and stabilization of vertebral fractures and dislocations remain similar
to those proposed by ancient and medieval physicians.
Neurosurg Focus 16(1) 2004
Medscape Pain Management Resource Center
This Medscape Resource Center provides the latest medical news and clinical information on pain and its management, including reports from
recent conferences, review articles, CME programs, and links to clinical practice guidelines and other related resources on the Web.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by generalized pain, fatigue, disturbed sleep, and numerous unexplained somatic complaints that is
present in at least 5% of the general adult population (mostly women) in Western countries.
WebMD Scientific American Medicine 2004
HEADACHE AND OTHER PAIN-RELATED TOPICS
Saline Injections as Effective as Prolotherapy for Chronic Low-Back Pain
In a randomized trial, ligament injections caused significant and sustained reductions in pain and disability, regardless of the solution
injected or the concurrent use of exercises.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Morning Headache Common in Depression, Anxiety Disorders
A telephone survey showed that this symptom may be a good indicator of depression and insomnia and is not specific to sleep-disordered
breathing.
Medscape Medical News 2004
L-Arginine Cream May Improve Blood Flow, Temperature in the Feet of Diabetics
Further research is needed to determine if this topical product has clinical benefit in diabetics with peripheral neuropathy who are at risk for
amputation.
Medscape Medical News 2004
Migraine: A Chronic Sympathetic Nervous System Disorder
What is the degree of diagnostic and clinical similarity between chronic sympathetic nervous system disorders and migraine.
Headache 44(1) 2004
What is the Optimal Threshold for Cerebral Perfusion Pressure Following Traumatic Brain Injury?
A great deal of controversy exists regarding the optimal CPP value, with disparate studies providing conflicting evidence for the use
of supraphysiological CPP values.
Neurosurg Focus 15(6) 2003
all approaches to analgesia should lead to the goal of pain relief
The Right to Die
MEDLINE Abstracts- Violence Against Women - Effects on the Brain
www.safeaccessnow.org
Medscape Neurology Pain Management Resource Center
Read the latest medical news and clinical information on pain and its management, including reports from recent conferences, review
articles, CME programs, and links to clinical practice guidelines and other related resources on the Web.
OSTEOARTHRITIS MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN- A NOT-SO-SILENT
EPIDEMIC
MIGRAINE: Free Slide Kit and Speaker's Notes
This eight-chapter slide kit includes sections on the different types of headaches, various migraine treatments and treatment strategies and the impact of migraine (such as direct and indirect costs and workplace
disability). There are a total of 240 slides.
Click here
to download. Brought to you by Attack-Migraine.com.
Breaking the Pain Barrier
Artemin reverses pain and neurochemical changes after nerve injury in an animal model. The molecule could potentially treat neuropathic
pain, in which even the slightest touch can hurt.
Nat Med 9(11) 2003
Neuropsychological Studies in Geriatric Psychiatry
Read this comprehensive summary of recent work in the field of neuropsychology that is relevant to geriatric psychiatry.
Curr Opin Psychiatry 16(6) 2003
Giant Cell Tumor of the Sacrum
Dutch Approve Cannabis as Prescription Drug
The Netherlands Monday became the world's first country to make cannabis available as a prescription drug to treat cancer, HIV and multiple sclerosis patients, the Health Ministry said.
Reuters Health Information 2003
FROM MEDSCAPE NEUROLOGY/NEUROSURGERY
October/November 2003: Reefer Madness
Is a grandmother with cancer who smokes pot a criminal? What about a talk-show host with an opiate addiction?
Pain-relief practices and regulations need reevaluation by the larger medical community.
Medscape Neurology & Neurosurgery 5(2) 2003
The DEA's War On Pain Doctors
Insight Into Pain
The Sacrum
Latest Research On Chronic Pain
Chronic Noncancer Pain
Chronic Pain Medications
Side Effects and Therapeutic Effects
Understanding side effects in drugs
Medscape General Medicine 5(1) 2003
Brain Rewiring & Chronic Pain
A Look At Pain~Mistress C
Coping with Chronic Pain
Back Pain & Brain Shrinkage
Marijuana & Pain
Disability Links For All Abilities
Using The Mind, Not Drugs, To Fight Pain
Lumbar Back Problems
Sacred Pain
Marijuana in Britain Proves Nerve Pain is Helped
American Academy of Pain Management.
One day pain relievers: something other than' addictive narcotics
Release of Positive Data from Completed Phase II Pain Trial
"Drug Reform &Chronic Pain Treatment"
Chronic Pain Solution
When Pain becomes your Reality
http://helpforpain.com
Neuropathic Pain, The Disease
Killing Pain, Killing Bones?
Thomas A. Sutor
P.O. Box 2343
Lompoc CA 93438
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