Thinking bigger – a national strategy for pain.
We know that pain is a problem in South Africa. 1 in 5 South Africans is living with chronic pain (Kamerman et al, 2020) and it is the most common reason people seek healthcare at the primary level. Beyond these black-and-white statistics, are the people with pain whose lives are interrupted and disrupted in every […]
The Efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a complex and persistent condition that affects millions worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life and daily functioning. While traditional treatments often focus on symptom management through medication and physical therapy, psychological interventions are gaining recognition for their effectiveness in addressing the emotional and cognitive aspects of pain. One such approach, Acceptance and […]
Cannabis for chronic pain: cardiovascularsafety in a nationwide Danish study
The use of medical cannabis as a treatment for chronic pain is expanding globally, driven by increasing legal acceptance and patient interest. However, concerns about its cardiovascular safety persist, especially given the documented risks associated with recreational cannabis use. This study leverages nationwide Danish health registers to explore the cardiovascular implications of prescribed medical […]
Influence of Routine Exercise on The Peripheral Immune System to Prevent and Alleviate Pain
Routine exercise is a cornerstone of health, widely acknowledged for its benefits in preventing chronic illnesses and improving overall well-being. Recent scientific advancements, however, reveal an even deeper role—exercise as a modulator of the peripheral immune system to alleviate and prevent pain. This exploration into the connection between physical activity, immune responses, and pain management […]
The Relationship Between Traumatic Exposure and Pain Perception in Children: The Moderating Role of Post Traumatic Symptoms
Many of us understand that difficult experiences during childhood can leave a lasting imprint on our health and well-being. But did you know they can also influence how we perceive pain? This blog delves into a recent study examining the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and pain perception in young children. ACEs refer to […]
The Patient–Provider Relationship in Chronic Pain Care: Providers’ Perspectives.
Pain is the most common symptom reported in primary care settings, affecting millions of individuals daily. Alarmingly, 57% of American adults experience chronic or recurrent pain, a condition that not only affects quality of life but also poses significant challenges for healthcare providers. In the Veterans Health Administration alone, chronic pain impacts 40–70% of veterans, […]
Early versus persistent Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Is there a difference in patient reported outcomes following rehabilitation?
Exploring the outcomes of rehabilitation for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a new study challenges longstanding assumptions about the role of symptom duration in recovery. Traditionally, early intervention (<1 year) was thought to yield better results. However, findings suggest that patients with persistent CRPS (≥1 year) not only benefit equally from rehabilitation but also sustain […]
Persistent Physical Symptoms: Definition, Genesis, and Management
Persistent physical symptoms, also known as persistent somatic symptoms, refer to distressing bodily complaints that endure for several months or longer, regardless of their underlying cause. These symptoms often result in significant disability and impose a heavy burden on patients, healthcare providers, and society as a whole. While they may follow infections, injuries, or medical […]
The Mechanisms and Management of Persistent Postsurgical Pain
Persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) affects 10%–50% of patients, lasting beyond three months despite adequate pain management. The link between early and long-term pain outcomes remains unclear, with risk factors like pre-operative anxiety and severe acute pain playing key roles. While opioids are common in perioperative care, their long-term use risks addiction and hyperalgesia. This review […]
The Efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a relentless challenge that affects millions worldwide, often diminishing quality of life and mental well-being. Traditional approaches to pain management offer relief for some, but many continue to seek effective, sustainable solutions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a form of behavioral therapy, has emerged as a promising approach, helping individuals reframe their […]