Arthritis Pain: Why Does it Happen and What Can You Do?

Arthritis, a common condition affecting millions of people, causes pain and inflammation in the joints. There are different types of arthritis, but two of the most common are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Understanding where the pain comes from is important to managing it. Are you one of the over 595 million people worldwide who live… Continue reading Arthritis Pain: Why Does it Happen and What Can You Do?

How is Marijuana Legal? State vs. Federal Law

For the last few years, the legal status of marijuana in the United States has been changing rapidly. The most commonly taken drug in the country, an estimated 48.2 million people used marijuana in 2019 according to the CDC. While it remains illegal at the federal level, a number of states have legalized its medical… Continue reading How is Marijuana Legal? State vs. Federal Law

Dealing with Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain stands as a widespread and debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide. Unlike acute pain, which often comes from injury or trauma and tends to resolve with time, chronic pain persists for extended periods. Effectively managing this necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. So let’s get into it. What… Continue reading Dealing with Chronic Back Pain

Tips for Chronic Pain Management

Living with chronic pain is a daily challenge that can be physically and emotionally draining. When the pain becomes overwhelming, it’s essential to have a toolkit of strategies to help you navigate these tough moments. Here are some practical tips for coping with chronic pain when it feels like it is too much to bear.… Continue reading Tips for Chronic Pain Management

New Boston Scientific Data Shows 50% Drop in Patient Pain

The SOLIS trial was presented at the North American Neuromodulation Society Meeting in Las Vegas recently. It showcased promising results for Boston Scientific’s WaveWriter Alpha Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) system in alleviating chronic pain. The one-year data revealed a significant 50% reduction in patient pain, marking a substantial advancement in pain management. The study indicated… Continue reading New Boston Scientific Data Shows 50% Drop in Patient Pain

Marijuana Plays No Role in Starting or Stopping Opioids

A recent review concludes that there is no link between the use of cannabis and a person’s use of illicit opioids. The study challenges the notion that cannabis serves as a gateway drug influencing individuals to try narcotics. It also also dismisses the idea that weed is effective in helping individuals overcome opioid addiction. The… Continue reading Marijuana Plays No Role in Starting or Stopping Opioids

Hidden Dangers of the Opioid Epidemic

A recent study published in the Journal of Pain suggests that prescribed opioids may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and higher doses may further elevate this risk. The research into the opioid epidemic, led by Dr. Minhee Sung, analyzed data from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS). They focused on approximately 50,000 patients,… Continue reading Hidden Dangers of the Opioid Epidemic

Navigating the Maze of Hip Pain

Hip pain is an intricate puzzle that can significantly impact the daily lives of individuals, regardless of age or lifestyle. Whether it’s the result of strenuous physical activity, the wear and tear of aging, or an unexpected injury, understanding the diverse causes of hip pain is the first step toward effective management and relief. In… Continue reading Navigating the Maze of Hip Pain

Understanding the 5 A’s of Chronic Pain

What are the 5 A’s? The 5 A’s of Chronic Pain is a framework designed to help healthcare professionals address and manage pain effectively. The 5 A’s stand for: Analgesia, Activity, Adverse effects, Aberrant behaviors, and Affect. Each A represents a crucial aspect of chronic pain management. The monitoring tool helps assessing pain when on… Continue reading Understanding the 5 A’s of Chronic Pain

Getting Creative: Artistic Expression for Your Mental Health 

According to the National Library of Medicine, “Creative imagination, creative motives, and creative products are unique to human beings and are the source of their cultural achievement. Creativity is an ability to make new combinations, and it is one of the most highly valued of human qualities.” It is “commonly considered to be fostered by… Continue reading Getting Creative: Artistic Expression for Your Mental Health