Pain management

Recent research has made significant strides in treating chronic low back pain in people over 60, revealing that hip-focused therapy can effectively reduce disability and improve mobility. This challenges the prevailing notion that older adults should receive less attention for musculoskeletal issues.The first-ever clinical trial focuses on precision medicine specifically for older adults, a group often overlooked in musculoskeletal research.Two decades ago, when Gregory Hicks of the University of Delaware began his…

Low back pain impacts over 570 million people worldwide, with significant healthcare costs and recovery challenges. Research shows that while early recovery is possible, persistent pain can lead to chronic conditions, necessitating new treatment approaches focusing on pain system sensitivity. Early identification of subacute cases is essential to prevent long-term disability, highlighting the need for more comprehensive research and treatment strategies.Globally, low back pain significantly contributes to disability,…

A University of Sydney-led study challenges the prevailing view of opioids as the most effective pain relievers for cancer, revealing significant evidence gaps and suggesting NSAIDs as a potential alternative. This research advocates for more informed choices in cancer pain management, emphasizing patient empowerment and the consideration of non-opioid options.Our understanding of the role of opioid medicines in cancer pain is challenged by a new review.Researchers studying opioid data for cancer-related pain discovered…

A comprehensive study reveals that triptans, ergots, and anti-emetics are notably more effective than ibuprofen for treating migraines. Analyzing data from hundreds of thousands of app users, the study highlights the superior efficacy of medications like eletriptan and zolmitriptan, offering new guidance for migraine treatment.Many individuals suffering from migraines struggle to find treatments that work consistently, and often there’s a lack of comparative information on different medications. A new study, utilizing…

A recent study found that physicians reduce prescriptions of opioids and benzodiazepines when notified of a patient’s overdose death, particularly if the notification includes actionable guidance. This approach leads to safer prescribing practices and could help reduce drug overdose fatalities. Letters notifying physicians of patient overdose deaths and providing a plan for the future is an effective intervention, according to a new study.Physicians who are notified that a patient has died of a drug overdose are more…

New research analyzing over 100,000 migraine patients, revealed that CGRP inhibitors, amitriptyline, and simvastatin are more effective than traditional beta-blockers in preventing migraines. This discovery could lead to more cost-effective treatments and impact healthcare spending in Norway.A migraine is much more than a mere headache. It frequently involves additional symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and a heightened sensitivity to light and sound. Chronic migraines can be debilitating, often hindering individuals,…

A new compound, discovered through extensive screening of 27 million potential drugs, has shown efficacy in reversing chronic pain in animal studies, with minimal side effects. This research represents a significant advancement in pain management. The compound, CBD3063, targets the Cav2.2 calcium channel in a novel way and has outperformed existing drugs like gabapentin. Ongoing research aims to refine this compound and bring it to clinical trials as a safer, more effective pain relief medication.Researchers have…

A study led by Monash University and Alfred Health, found that methotrexate, a low-cost drug used since the 1980s, could effectively treat hand osteoarthritis. The research showed that a 20mg weekly dose of methotrexate over six months significantly reduced pain and stiffness in patients, offering a promising treatment option for a condition that severely impacts quality of life and lacks effective medication. Future trials are planned to explore long-term effects and specific benefits for postmenopausal women.An…

A recent study on over 300 chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) patients found that acupuncture might provide limited symptom relief, but the clinical significance remains unclear. An accompanying editorial highlights acupuncture’s potential in treating non-pain conditions and the need for broader clinical openness to its use.A randomized controlled study involving over 300 participants diagnosed with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), or hives, suggested that acupuncture might provide some relief from symptoms. However,…

A Rutgers study has found that CBD, a non-addictive marijuana derivative, significantly reduces dental pain, presenting a safer alternative to opioids. The research, which involved monitoring pain reduction in participants, suggests CBD’s potential in dental pain management, with further research and a phase III trial planned. Rutgers researchers report that CBD effectively reduces dental pain, offering a potential alternative to opioids. Further research is planned to confirm these findings and explore CBD’s…