The Clinical journal of pain
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The purpose of this study was to assess the analgesic potential of sustained-release (SR) bupropion for neuropathic pain. ⋯ This uncontrolled pilot study suggests that bupropion may be an effective and tolerated treatment for some patients with neuropathic pain. Blockade of norepinephrine reuptake may mediate this effect. The role of dopamine reuptake blockade is uncertain. A larger randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study is currently underway to confirm these preliminary results.
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The goal of this study was to assess clinical consensus regarding whether myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a legitimate and distinct diagnosis as well as the signs and symptoms characterizing MPS. ⋯ There was general agreement across specialties that MPS is a legitimate diagnosis distinct from fibromyalgia. There was a high level of agreement regarding the signs and symptoms essential or associated with a diagnosis of MPS. Differences across specialties are discussed. This survey provides a first step toward the development of consensus-based diagnostic criteria for MPS, which can then be validated empirically.
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The goal of this study was to examine whether body activity such as postural, trunk, and limb movements may be potential pain cues in preterm infants. ⋯ Some extensor movements seemed to be distress signals, whereas tremors, startles, and twitches were not related to discomfort during the observation period. These behaviors may differ qualitatively during longer lasting tissue invasive events. The results of this study indicate the need for more in-depth study of patterns of motor activity in preterm infants over longer observation periods to evaluate potential signs of stress and pain in babies undergoing NICU medical care.
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This is the first review of chronic pain (CP) malingering/disease simulation research. The purpose of this review was to determine the prevalence of malingering within CP patients (CPPs), whether evidence exists that malingering can be detected within CPPs, and to suggest some avenues of research for this topic. ⋯ Current data on the prevalence of malingering within CPPs is not consistent, and no conclusions can be drawn from these data. As yet, there is no reliable method for detecting malingering within CPPs, although isokinetic testing shows promise. Claims by professionals that such a determination can be made should be viewed with caution.
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To determine whether elderly individuals with chronic pain as a result of osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee would report adaptations to their activities, or occupational adaptations, as a coping response to pain and, if so, to describe these adaptations and their relation to chronic pain, functional difficulty, depression, social support, and life satisfaction. ⋯ This sample of elderly individuals with chronic pain described occupational adaptations, or adaptations to "doing," as a means of coping with their chronic pain. There appeared to be a relation among pain, functional difficulty, depression, social support, and occupational adaptation. Additional research to increase the understanding of occupational adaptation as a means of coping with chronic pain is warranted.