Der Schmerz
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Tension-type headache and migraine are the second and third most prevalent disorders of mankind worldwide, after dental caries. The widespread implementation of smartphones enables the use of specific software applications (apps) for digital treatment accompaniment. In this study, the use of the migraine app (Migräne-App) for iOS and Android was examined in the practical treatment of migraine and headache patients in an extensive population sample. ⋯ The data show that the digital treatment control for therapy decisions made by the physician is highly relevant and established. Therapy compliance is improved and possible complications such as headache due to medication overuse are reduced. At the same time, a significant improvement of headache parameters and a marked overall improvement of treatment quality, amongst other things due to more easily available information and self-help tools can be observed.
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Due to high prescription rates as well as the frequent use as over the counter drugs, it is of interest to consider non-opioid analgesics when evaluating the quality and appropriateness of a given overall medication. This article sums up the basic pharmacology and main adverse effects of these analgesics. ⋯ Acetaminophen and metamizole (dipyrone) are analgesics and antipyretic agents, while metamizole exhibits also spasmolytic effects. Capsaicin and intrathecal ziconotide are pure analgesics.
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Despite suitable analgesia procedures and interventions only approximately 24% of inpatients with strong to very strong pain receive adequate treatment. Besides opioids, which are associated with numerous side effects and risks, non-pharmacological approaches are increasingly being used. In this context, one of the oldest known methods are music interventions; however, the state of evidence is heterogeneous and there are no explicit manuals and recommendations for the effective implementation of music interventions. ⋯ Music is a non-pharmacological method to alleviate pain, which is free of side effects. Important considerations for the use of music interventions for relief of acute pain associated with surgery are discussed taking into account numerous mediating factors, which influence the efficacy of the treatment.