PainSA is a chapter of the International Association for the Study of Pain. Our mission is to improve all aspects of pain management in Southern Africa.

We are a multidisciplinary society whose membership includes all healthcare professionals

Physical Activity and Pain In People With and Without Cancer

While exercise is known to be effective for chronic non-cancer pain, its benefits for cancer-related pain are less certain. However, a recent study involving 10,000 cancer patients found that exercising for at least 30 minutes on most days may help reduce pain in those diagnosed with cancer.

An Enactive Approach To Pain: Beyond The Biopsychosocial Model

In this blog post, we explore a new and thought-provoking approach to understanding pain that goes beyond traditional models. While the widely accepted biopsychosocial model has made strides in integrating biological, psychological, and social factors, it remains limited by fragmented application and dualistic thinking. This article introduces the enactive approach to pain, a concept rooted in phenomenology […]

NSAIDs in CKD: Are They Safe?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients face unique challenges in pain management. Their altered drug processing and limited safety data for pain medications complicate treatment. While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were historically avoided due to potential kidney damage,alternative options like opioids raise concerns. This review explores the potential benefits and risks of NSAID use in CKD patients, considering […]

Promoting Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Pain Science

Historically, the fields of science and medicine have perpetuated discriminatory views based on race, ethnicity, and gender. Marginalized individuals have often been overlooked and mistreated. It’s time to change that narrative.

A Resounding Success: Recap of the 2024 PainSA Congress in Durban

The PainSA Congress in Durban this year was a resounding success! We at PainSA want to express our sincere gratitude to all the members who attended and made the event so informative and engaging. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive, and attendance was significantly higher than last year. This year’s Congress delivered on its promise, featuring: ·                     A […]

Osteoarthritis In People Over 16

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition causing joint pain and stiffness, affecting millions. This article summarizes the latest NICE guidelines for diagnosing and managing the condition. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.p24