The Clinical journal of pain
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Pedometer-driven Walking for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial.
To evaluate the feasibility of an RCT of a pedometer-driven walking program and education/advice to remain active compared with education/advice only for treatment of chronic low back pain (CLBP). ⋯ This preliminary study demonstrated that a main RCT is feasible. EWP was safe and produced a real increase in walking; CLBP function and pain improved, and participants perceived a greater improvement in their PA levels. These improvements require confirmation in a fully powered RCT.
-
Epidemiologic studies in the non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive population have shown greater health care utilization among persons with chronic non-cancer pain on opioid therapy. However, we are not aware of any similar data in the HIV positive population. ⋯ In our study HIV positive individuals with chronic pain were more likely to be seen in the ER and be hospitalized if they were on opioids. However, after controlling for other variables, the association with opioids no longer remained significant.
-
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has become an epidemic worldwide, and OSA patients frequently present for surgery. Comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, gastrointestinal disorder, metabolic syndrome, chronic pain, delirium, and pulmonary disorder increase the perioperative risk for OSA patients. ⋯ Management of acute postoperative pain in OSA patient remains complex. A comprehensive strategy is needed to reduce the complications and adverse events related to administration of analgesics and anesthetics.
-
Review
Subcutaneous and Perineural Botulinum Toxin Type A For Neuropathic Pain: A Descriptive Review.
Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that has been widely used in chronic pain for the treatment of multiple conditions with a component of localized muscle spasm. Recent studies suggest that botulinum toxin is effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain syndromes such as postherpetic neuralgia or painful scars. ⋯ On the basis of the analysis of the reports published in the literature, it would seem that fractioned peripheral subcutaneous and perineural injections of botulinum toxin type A may be useful for the treatment of various chronic pain conditions with neuropathic component.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Reduces Postsurgical Opioid Consumption in Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA).
Although pain is often a symptom that precedes total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the procedure itself is associated with considerable postoperative pain lasting days to weeks. Postoperative pain control is an important factor in determining recovery time, hospital length of stay, and rehabilitation success. Several brain stimulation technologies including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have demonstrated promise as treatments for a variety of pain conditions. The present study examined the effects of 4 sessions of tDCS on post-TKA pain and opioid consumption. ⋯ Results from this pilot feasibility study suggest that tDCS may be able to reduce post-TKA opioid requirements. Although these results are preliminary, the data support further research in the area of adjunctive cortical stimulation in the management of postsurgical pain.