The Clinical journal of pain
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A relationship between sleep and pain is well established. A better understanding of the mechanisms that link sleep and pain intensity is urgently needed to optimize pain management interventions. The objective of this systematic review was to identify, synthesize, and critically appraise studies that have investigated putative mediators on the path between sleep and pain intensity. ⋯ A growing body of research is applying mediation analysis to elucidate mechanistic pathways between sleep and pain intensity. Currently sparse evidence would be illuminated by more intensively collected longitudinal data and improvements in analysis.
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Neuraxial-spinal and epidural-administration of opioids can be an effective method for controlling pain for children in a number of clinical settings. Understanding the basic pharmacologic and logistical concepts will make it easier for pediatricians to advocate for their patients, and support patients and families when circumstances suggest that neuraxial opioid treatment is appropriate. This review article summarizes the basic concepts of pharmacology, drug choice, side effects, and complications as well as situations in which neuraxial opioids are appropriate in children.
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The opioid crisis in America affects both adults and children. However, knowledge about the epidemiology of the opioid crisis, opioid prescribing patterns, and the link between opioid prescribing and problematic opioid behaviors remain limited. Thus, children are often excluded from health care policies and guidelines aimed at curbing the opioid crises. The primary aim of this topical review is to provide a brief overview of the opioid crises affecting children, followed by a synopsis of recent research on opioid prescribing patterns and data on the links between legitimate opioid use and risk for problematic opioid use behaviors. ⋯ There exist an urgent need to identify adolescents at increased risk for problematic opioid use behaviors following a receipt of medically prescribed opioids. The article closes with some general guidelines that providers may follow to reduce the risk of opioids in pediatric patients.
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Adolescents are heavy users of social media as a venue to share experience and obtain information. Adolescents with chronic pain may be no different. Given that adolescents with chronic pain report feelings of social isolation, of being different, and lack peer understanding, social media may help them obtain social support. We conducted a scoping review of YouTube to identify how adolescents with chronic pain use this platform to connect with other adolescents. ⋯ Despite potential challenges associated with social media, YouTube may be a promising platform for provision of social support for adolescents with chronic pain.