Articles: neuropathic-pain.
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Review Meta Analysis
Peripheral Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Neuropathies: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
The main objective of this review is to demonstrate the use of Peripheral Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS), together with its most up-to-date protocols, for the treatment of neuropathies. ⋯ PENS requires nurse education on electrode/needle placement and patient instruction, with documentation of key parameters. This review emphasizes the need for further research to establish standardized protocols and optimal application parameters for different neuropathic pain conditions.
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Non-invasive neuromodulation techniques (NIN), such as transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), have been extensively researched for their potential to alleviate pain by reversing neuroplastic changes associated with neuropathic pain (NP), a prevalent and complex condition. However, treating NP remains challenging due to the numerous variables involved, such as different techniques, dosages and aetiologies. It is necessary to provide insights for clinicians and public healthcare managers to support clinical decision-making. This umbrella review aims to consolidate existing evidence on the effectiveness of various NIN in managing chronic NP. ⋯ This paper consolidates the evidence regarding non-invasive neuromodulation for the treatment of neuropathic pain, including differentiating the most effective techniques based on the aetiology of pain, and provides clinicians with easy access to this critical information. It also highlights key aspects that require further research in the field of non-invasive neuromodulation and neuropathic pain.
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Jan 2025
ReviewKetamine Infusion for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment: A Narrative Review.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a neuropathic pain disorder characterized by pain disproportionate to the inciting event that is constant for an extended duration. Numerous treatment options for this condition have been explored with unsatisfactory results in many cases. Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist typically used as an anesthetic and analgesic, presents a promising potential treatment for CRPS in patients who fail to respond to traditional therapies. ⋯ The present investigation summarizes existing knowledge and research surrounding ketamine infusions for CRPS to provide a well-rounded depiction of advantages and disadvantages for physicians who may be considering it for patients with this challenging and complex condition.
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Jan 2025
ReviewPain and Perception: Exploring Psychedelics as Novel Therapeutic Agents in Chronic Pain Management.
Chronic pain affects approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide, representing the leading cause of disability and a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. Conventional treatments, such as opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are frequently linked to adverse effects, including dependency and gastrointestinal issues, and often offer limited long-term relief. This review explores the potential of psychedelics, including psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine, as alternative therapeutic agents in chronic pain management. ⋯ These substances modulate pain perception through actions on serotonergic and glutamatergic systems and may promote neuroplasticity, offering novel pathways for pain relief. Specifically, the review details the pharmacologic actions of psychedelics, their effects on chronic pain syndromes such as cancer pain, migraines, and neuropathic pain, and their clinical implications. The safety profiles, patient responses, and analgesic properties of these compounds are examined, highlighting the need for further research to validate their efficacy and optimize their therapeutic use in pain management.