Pain medicine : the official journal of the American Academy of Pain Medicine
-
Pain specialists treat patients with headache and interface with those who use opioids more so than neurologists and headache specialists. We assessed the headache medicine knowledge and needs of pain specialists. ⋯ Dissemination and implementation of headache guidelines is needed for pain medicine specialists. Providers may need help diagnosing migraine based on currently accepted guidelines and referring for evidence-based behavioral therapies.
-
A qualitative study of patients' experiences and the impacts of peer support groups that patients maintained after UK NHS group pain management programs (PMPs). ⋯ Co-produced peer support groups after PMPs can be a low-cost, effective social intervention, providing emotional, practical and social benefits, with improved self-management skills, stronger social connections and some reduced use of health services. Project resources for developing peer support meetings after PMPs are freely available online.
-
This study examined the relationships between symptom domains relevant to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis, PTSD screening, and chronic pain-related symptoms (pain intensity, pain interference, physical function, fatigue, depression, anxiety, anger, satisfaction with social roles) experienced by active duty military service members with chronic pain. ⋯ To improve treatment effectiveness and overall functioning for active duty military patients, integrated treatment and therapies targeted to reducing chronic pain and PTSD symptoms (focus on emotional numbness and avoidance) are recommended.
-
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful limb condition known to cause significant disability and distress. However, little previous research has explored CRPS from a patient perspective. The present qualitative study aimed to describe the experiences of people living with CRPS. ⋯ CRPS is experienced as highly threatening to physical ability, psychological state, and identity. In response to these threats, people may develop their own explanations for CRPS and may mentally detach themselves from responsibility, control, and the painful limb itself. Future research could explore the impact of these factors on psychological well-being and CRPS symptoms and outcomes.