European journal of pain : EJP
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain by topical capsaicin: Impact of pre-existing pain in the QUEPP-study.
This study evaluates the impact of the duration of pre-existing peripheral neuropathic pain on the therapeutic response to the capsaicin 8% cutaneous patch. ⋯ The highest treatment response to the capsaicin 8% cutaneous patch was observed in patients with a history of pre-existing peripheral neuropathic pain of less than 6 months, suggesting that early initiation of topical treatment might be indicated.
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Comparative Study
Neuronal differences between chronic low back pain and depression regarding long-term habituation to pain.
Longitudinal studies of experimental pain are rare and little is known about the differences regarding sensitization and habituation over longer periods in patients with chronic pain or depression compared with controls. ⋯ Given that pain and depression potentiate each other clinically, our data suggest that this may involve different cortical pain areas.
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Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) may be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to investigate the association between CMP and CVD, and the contribution of physical activity and sedentary behaviour to any association. ⋯ CMP is associated with an increased risk of CVD and the association is stronger in older adults. Neither physical activity nor sedentary behaviour contributed to this relationship. Longitudinal studies are warranted to better understand the relationship between CVD and CMP.
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To investigate the role of the synthetic steroid tibolone in the progression of osteoarthritis (OA) and in nociceptive behaviour in an experimental rat model of OA and ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis. ⋯ Treatment with tibolone attenuated the development of OA, concomitantly reduced nociception and increased serum alkaline phosphatase in ACLT + OVX rats.
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Research into mental imagery has increased our understanding of a range of psychological problems. However, there has been little study into the spontaneous mental images experienced in response to chronic pain. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and characteristics of these pain-related mental images. ⋯ This study describes themes and characteristics of pain-related mental imagery and confirms that they are a frequent, vivid and distressing experience for many chronic pain sufferers. The results of this study suggest that pain-related mental imagery could provide an additional route for assessment and intervention. Further research should focus on assessment, measurement and intervention in clinical populations.