Current Pain And Headache Reports[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Neuroinflammation and Pediatric Chronic Pain - A Review.
Rogan H, Smith AM, Farr G … +1 more , LeBel AA
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41579274 · Full text
To report on the relationship between neuroinflammation and chronic pain, especially in the pediatric population. Pediatric chronic pain is prevalent, affecting about 20% of the population. Neuroinflammation is now recog...
To report on the relationship between neuroinflammation and chronic pain, especially in the pediatric population. Pediatric chronic pain is prevalent, affecting about 20% of the population. Neuroinflammation is now recognized as a putative contributing factor to the development and maintenance of chronic pain. Strides have been made in understanding neuroinflammatory processes in the context of pain, as research begins to unravel the involvement of glial cells (e.g., microglia, astrocytes), pro-inflammatory markers (e.g., interleukins, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha [TNF-α]), and metabolic pathways (e.g., oxidative stress). In children, the vulnerability of a developing nervous system, life stressors (e.g., adjustment periods/transitions, social stress, family dynamics) and hormonal changes can further impact neuroinflammation and promote pain. Investigating this complex web of factors that contribute to pediatric pain has implications for both clinical practice and research. This review aims to summarize recent literature on the role of neuroinflammation in pediatric chronic pain, highlighting novel insights and areas for future clinical exploration. Targeting neuroinflammation shows promise for advancing pediatric chronic pain management, but pediatric-specific studies remain quite limited, and urgently needed.
Minimally Invasive Interventional Management of Pudendal Neuralgia: A Narrative Review.
Lam CM, Robinson CL, Kuester K … +3 more , Tate JL, Patel K, Latif U
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41553637 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP), affecting approximately 26% of women globally, is a multifactorial condition with causes including, but not limited to, gynecologic disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP), affecting approximately 26% of women globally, is a multifactorial condition with causes including, but not limited to, gynecologic disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and neuropathic disorders including pudendal neuralgia. A comprehensive evaluation and a multimodal treatment strategy - encompassing medical, minimally invasive non surgical, and surgical therapies - are essential for effective management. This narrative review explores current minimally invasive interventional management options for pudendal neuralgia causing CPP. RECENT FINDINGS: Pudendal nerve blocks demonstrated pain relief, but the duration of relief varied. Pulsed radiofrequency ablation revealed longer-lasting pain relief compared to pudendal nerve blocks, with several clinical trials and case reports supporting its efficacy. Additionally, neuromodulation techniques, including neuraxial and peripheral nerve neuromodulation, showed promising results in alleviating pain for patients who did not respond to conservative measures. While studies describe interventional therapy for pudendal neuralgia, there is a dearth of randomized controlled trials, which limits the ability to generalize treatment options for pudendial neuralgia. Despite this, current data suggest the possible benefit of interventional management of for pudendal neuralgia.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Is Effective in the Management of Trigeminal Pain: A Systematic Review and meta-analysis.
Yue K, Lei X, He R … +1 more , Jiang Z
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41533241 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) patients usually experience severe facial pain, leading to a significant reduction in quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) on pa...
INTRODUCTION: Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) patients usually experience severe facial pain, leading to a significant reduction in quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) on pain relief in patients with TN. METHODS: The databases of EMBASE, WEB OF SCIENCE, and PUBMED were searched from inception to 2024 for clinical trials of PNS for TN. The inclusion criteria consisted of any study using PNS to treat TN and reporting outcomes of pain intensity. Risk of bias was assessed using Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 and Methodological Index of Non-Randomised Studies (MINORS) tool. Meta-analysis was conducted with RevMan 5.3 and publication bias was evaluated via Egger's test through STATA17. RESULTS: We identified 1,574 citations, and included 9 trials comprising 112 participants. In terms of efficacy, PNS was associated with significant pain relief compared to baseline (MD, -6.23 cm [95% CI, -7.20 to -5.26 cm], P < 0.05, I = 89%), with the reduction closely approaching the minimal important difference (MID) threshold of 6.25 cm. Subgroup analysis showed that patients with baseline pain scores ≥ 8 experienced greater pain relief (N = 52, MD, -7.06 cm [95% CI, -8.30 to -5.82 cm], I = 87%, p = 0.02) compared to patients with pain scores < 8(N = 60, MD, -4.75 cm [95% CI, -6.22 to -3.28 cm], I = 89%) . CONCLUSIONS: The meta-analysis results showed PNS leads to a statistically and clinically significant improvement in pain. PNS may be a promising approach in the management of TN.
Clinical Role of Corticosteroids Versus Platelet Rich Plasma Injections in the Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: a Narrative Review.
Kaye AD, Soorya Y, Abubakar BA … +3 more , Qamar RF, Patil S, Shekoohi S
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41504848 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review seeks to assess and compare the mechanisms, effectiveness, safety, and clinical applications of corticosteroid and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review seeks to assess and compare the mechanisms, effectiveness, safety, and clinical applications of corticosteroid and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). RECENT FINDINGS: Recently, PRP therapy has gained attention as a promising alternative, offering a regenerative approach. PRP, which contains autologous growth factors, supports tissue repair and cellular regeneration, potentially enabling long-term recovery. While corticosteroids offer rapid symptom relief, repeated use carries risks, including tendon degeneration and systemic side effects. In contrast, PRP therapy, though requiring more time for preparation and administration, may provide longer-lasting benefits with fewer associated risks. Despite these advantages, the comparative effectiveness of PRP and corticosteroids remains a subject of ongoing research. CTS is a common condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist. This pressure, often worsened by inflammation, impairs nerve function, which leads to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness. Corticosteroid injections have long been a standard treatment for CTS, primarily targeting inflammation and reducing pressure within the carpal tunnel by suppressing neutrophilic activity and lymphocyte proliferation. Agents like dexamethasone and betamethasone are commonly used for their strong anti-inflammatory effects. However, prolonged corticosteroid use has been shown to have decreased efficacy and increased risk for tissue damage. Other treatment options for CTS, including wrist splinting, activity modification, and surgical decompression in severe cases, also play a role in comprehensive management. Recently, PRP injections have been seen as a potential alternative because of their components, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) for wound healing, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for angiogenesis, and nerve growth factor (NGF) for nerve healing. The components of PRP can address the issue of carpal tunnel by targeting the median nerve to ease pressure and heal any damage to neighboring structures. However, unlike corticosteroids, PRP lacks standardization protocols, which makes it lack consistency and introduces possible risk for adverse side effects. Corticosteroids are the standard choice for clinical use as a treatment for carpal tunnel; however, given their short-term relief and risk for side effects from continuous use, PRP is a possible alternative. Furthermore, further studies are required to determine PRP’s efficacy and long-term use compared to corticosteroids.
The Interictal State of Migraine: Understanding the Hidden Burden Between Attacks.
Patel M, Parikh SK
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41493688 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Migraine is a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurrent attacks superimposed on an underlying state of persistent susceptibility. The interictal state, which is the time between acute ep...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Migraine is a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurrent attacks superimposed on an underlying state of persistent susceptibility. The interictal state, which is the time between acute episodes, is associated with symptoms that affect cognitive, functional, psychological, interpersonal, and socioeconomic domains. The objectives of this review are to define the interictal state of migraine, distinguish trigger subtypes, and investigate the transition from the interictal state to a migraine attack. RECENT FINDINGS: Studies using assessment tools such as the Migraine Interictal Burden Scale (MIBS-4) have documented severe interictal burden in a majority of patients in several large-scale studies; however, the interictal burden has traditionally received limited attention despite its substantial impact on patients. By highlighting gaps in current research and clinical management, this work underscores the need to address both ictal and interictal states, aiming to improve patient outcomes and enhance awareness of this underrecognized aspect of migraine.
Opioid Use Following Spine Surgery: Strategies for a Multimodal Approach To Pain Management.
Erbeldinger L, Martens B, Urman RD … +1 more , Luedi MM
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2026 Jan · PMID 41483349 · Full text
Chronic back pain is highly prevalent and closely associated with opioid misuse, particularly in patients undergoing spine surgery. Optimizing opioid prescribing practices and advancing alternative treatment modalities i...
Chronic back pain is highly prevalent and closely associated with opioid misuse, particularly in patients undergoing spine surgery. Optimizing opioid prescribing practices and advancing alternative treatment modalities is critical to reduce opioid-related morbidity and mortality. RECENT FINDINGS: Despite their well-documented risks-including misuse, adverse effects, and detrimental impacts on postsurgical outcomes-opioids remain the most commonly prescribed analgesics for back pain. Spine surgery, meanwhile, is frequently followed by intense postoperative pain due to central sensitization, which often necessitates opioid use and complicates pain management. This review provides an overview of current literature on opioid prescribing trends and alternative therapies for patients undergoing spine surgery. Following spine surgery, non-opioid pharmacologic agents and nutraceuticals can enhance analgesia and reduce opioid consumption. While erector spinae plane blocks and neuraxial techniques offer transient pain relief, their efficacy is limited by duration and potential risks. Spinal cord stimulation may benefit selected patients with back pain, although its opioid-sparing effects remain uncertain. Opioid prescribing should be limited to breakthrough pain and integrated into structured tapering strategies. Optimizing postoperative analgesia in spine surgery requires a multimodal approach, interdisciplinary collaboration, and individualized prescribing-potentially guided by emerging tools such as pharmacogenomic testing.
Clinical Efficacy of Erector Spinae Plane Block for Pain Management After Breast Surgeries: A Narrative Review.
Curry GC, Kichili NR, Kazmi RH … +6 more , Katzenmeyer BP, Ahmadzadeh S, Mathew J, Shekoohi S, Eng MR, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457202 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This narrative review explores the role of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) as an alternative strategy for managing acute and chronic pain following breast surgeries. The focus is on its potential...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This narrative review explores the role of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) as an alternative strategy for managing acute and chronic pain following breast surgeries. The focus is on its potential to reduce opioid consumption and the incidence of postmastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS), which remain significant postoperative concerns. METHODS: A structured literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, and ScienceDirect using keywords including: Erector Spinae Plane Block, ESPB, postoperative analgesia, opioid reduction, breast surgery, mastectomy, and postmastectomy pain syndrome. Studies included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series published within the last 10 years. The quality of evidence was assessed based on study design, sample size, and reported outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS: ESPB has shown promise in reducing postoperative pain and opioid requirements in breast surgeries, including mastectomies, lumpectomies, reconstruction, and axillary dissections. By delivering local anesthetic into the fascial plane deep to the erector spinae muscle, ESPB provides multi-dermatomal analgesia with a favorable safety profile. Compared to other regional techniques such as pectoralis nerve blocks and paravertebral blocks, ESPB is often easier to perform and associated with comparable or improved analgesia. Some studies also report earlier ambulation and shorter hospital stays. CONCLUSIONS: The ESPB has been shown to reduce the incidence of postmastectomy pain syndrome and opioid consumption following breast surgery. Current evidence indicates that both the ESPB and paravertebral blocks are both safe and effective in their analgesic purposes but there is no significant evidence favoring one block over the other.
The Analgesic Efficacy of Erector Spinae Plane Block in Patients Undergoing Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Shah SS, Johnson CD, Abbott BM … +6 more , Mira AJ, Teepell WM, Jenks K, Willett O, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457184 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The present investigation is the first systematic review and meta-analysis assessing analgesic efficacy of erector spinae plane blocks (ESPB) in patients undergoing nephrectomies. ESPBs have shown prom...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The present investigation is the first systematic review and meta-analysis assessing analgesic efficacy of erector spinae plane blocks (ESPB) in patients undergoing nephrectomies. ESPBs have shown promise in various surgeries, but their efficacy in nephrectomy has not been comprehensively evaluated. This study compares patients that underwent nephrectomies with ESPBs and general anesthesia versus patients that had general anesthesia only. We performed a systematic search for studies from PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane. Sources were considered for inclusion in the review if they were randomized controlled trials published from July 2014 to present in English. Data on postoperative opioid consumption, intraoperative opioid use, pain scores, and time to first analgesic request was extracted. The data was analyzed using EndNote, Rayyan, and RevMan software. RECENT FINDINGS: Our analysis included 7 studies with a total of 352 patients. ESPBs significantly reduced postoperative opioid consumption (mean difference = -11.28 mg IV (intravenous) morphine equivalents; 95% CI (confidence interval), -15.33 to -7.22; P < 0.00001) and intraoperative opioid use (mean difference = -0.08 mg IV fentanyl equivalents; 95% CI, -0.09 to -0.08; P < 0.00001). Also, the time to the first analgesic request was significantly longer in the ESPB group (mean difference = 52.86 min; 95% CI, 50.24 to 55.48; P < 0.00001). Pain scores were consistently lower in the ESPB group at various postoperative intervals. ESPBs effectively reduce both opioid consumption and pain scores in nephrectomy patients. This approach can minimize opioid-related side effects and improve recovery.
Efficacy of Suprascapular Versus Interscalene Block for Post-Operative Pain Management in Shoulder Surgeries: A Narrative Review.
Ahmadzadeh S, Naccari BP, Amedio LS … +4 more , Koruna AE, Bass D, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457137 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Analgesic techniques which provide sufficient post-operative shoulder pain relief while minimizing complications is crucial for helping patients achieve optimal recovery. The interscalene brachial plex...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Analgesic techniques which provide sufficient post-operative shoulder pain relief while minimizing complications is crucial for helping patients achieve optimal recovery. The interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) has long been considered the gold standard in terms of providing patients with adequate pain control following shoulder operations. However, ISB's expansive neural blockade poses several potential risks, including delayed sensorimotor rehabilitation to the upper extremity, partial blockade of the cervical sympathetic chain, and, most notably, diaphragmatic paresis, rendering this technique a potential contraindication in patients with respiratory compromise, including chronic lung disease, obesity, sleep apnea, etc. Hence, alternative regional techniques which employ a more localized blockade mechanism, such as the suprascapular nerve block (SSNB), have been examined as a means of circumventing these risks, while still providing comparable pain relief. This narrative review aims to provide an objective comparison of the functional efficacy of each analgesic technique based on parameters of post-operative pain management efficacy, opioid consumption, recovery patterns, technical functionality, and side effect profiles. RECENT FINDINGS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted and identified randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses which subjected patients to ISB or SSNB for shoulder pain relief and various metrics such as pain scores, opioid consumption, pulmonary function, adverse side effects, functional recovery, and patient satisfaction were evaluated. The consensus is that ISB is slightly more efficacious in relieving pain in the initial post-operative phase, but by 24 h post-operation any differences in pain are largely marginal. No clinically significant differences in long-term opioid consumption, patient satisfaction, or pain control were demonstrated in the world literature. Furthermore, SSNB exhibited significantly lower rates of pulmonary impairment and neurological side effects as well as quicker rates of functional recovery. SUMMARY: While ISB appears to be slightly more efficacious in administering pain relief in the immediate post-operative phase, SSNB appears to provide a safer side effect profile and should be considered in analgesia protocols for shoulder surgeries, especially in patient populations with pre-existing pulmonary conditions.
Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation of the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve for Chronic Refractory Meralgia Paresthetica.
Abd-Elsayed A, Jin MY, Murphy AP … +2 more , Henjum LJ, Shiferaw BT
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457131 · Full text
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain affects over 51 million people and is associated with a poor quality of life. Meralgia Paresthetica is a chronic pain condition resulting from injury to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain affects over 51 million people and is associated with a poor quality of life. Meralgia Paresthetica is a chronic pain condition resulting from injury to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment option that has demonstrated efficacy for several nerve targets. However, limited research has focused on RFA targeting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. This is the first study to date to investigate the outcomes of cooled RFA for the treating of refractory Meralgia Paresthetica. RECENT FINDINGS: Data were retrospectively collected from the electronic medical records of patients treated with cooled lateral femoral cutaneous nerve RFA for Meralgia Paresthetica between 2014 and 2025. Eleven cases involving seven patients were included in this study. VAS scores decreased from 5.91 ± 1.22 at baseline to 3.05 ± 2.64 at follow-up (p < 0.001). Patients in nine of the eleven cases reported improvement in pain, with an average reduction of 64.8%. Duration of pain relief after cooled RFA was 6.92 ± 3.23 months for six cases with this data available. Cooled lateral femoral cutaneous nerve RFA is effective for many patients with Meralgia Paresthetica and may be offered for refractory cases.
Bilateral Cingulotomy as a Therapeutic Option for Intractable Cancer Pain: a Systematic Review.
Kataria S, Wijaya JH, Patel U … +12 more , Inggas MAM, Shekoohi S, Dadwal S, Upadhyay N, Turjman T, Gadaevi M, Ismayilova A, Makrani M, Jha R, Ahmadzadeh S, Singh N, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457129 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cingulotomy, a stereotactic neurosurgical procedure targeting the anterior cingulate cortex, has been explored for various refractory pain and neuropsychiatric conditions. However, while prior reviews...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cingulotomy, a stereotactic neurosurgical procedure targeting the anterior cingulate cortex, has been explored for various refractory pain and neuropsychiatric conditions. However, while prior reviews have largely focused on chronic non-cancer pain, there remains a significant knowledge gap regarding its role in managing intractable cancer-related pain. This systematic review therefore aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bilateral cingulotomy as a therapeutic option for cancer-associated pain, addressing a highly underexplored but clinically relevant area of neurosurgical palliation. RECENT FINDINGS: A total of six studies were included, encompassing 172 patients with intractable or metastatic cancer pain who underwent bilateral cingulotomy. Procedures were performed using radiofrequency (RF) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA)-based lesioning at temperatures of approximately 75-80 °C for 60-80 s. Across studies, pain reduction was observed in 60-80% of patients, with variability in long-term durability of relief. Despite differences in technique, lesion parameters, and assessment scales, cingulotomy consistently demonstrated clinically meaningful pain improvement with a low rate of transient cognitive or behavioral side effects. These findings suggest that RFA-guided cingulotomy provides more precise lesioning and better short-term efficacy compared with earlier mechanical or thermocoagulation methods. Bilateral cingulotomy appears to be a safe and promising neurosurgical intervention for patients with intractable cancer pain refractory to conventional therapies. Nevertheless, variations in lesion temperature, duration, and number across studies contribute to heterogeneity in reported outcomes. Future research should focus on standardizing methodology, incorporating long-term neurocognitive monitoring, and expanding multicenter data to strengthen evidence for its clinical application.
Neural Modification To Treat Chronic Tendinopathy: Emerging Evidence and Opportunities for Pain Practitioners - A Systematic Review.
Palee S, Jarusriwanna A, Kaye AD … +3 more , Yener U, Naeimi T, Wahezi SE
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41457115 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This systematic review aims to evaluate procedural interventions for chronic tendinopathy, with a focus on neurogenic mechanisms such as nerve ingrowth and neovascularization. Tendinopathy affects both...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This systematic review aims to evaluate procedural interventions for chronic tendinopathy, with a focus on neurogenic mechanisms such as nerve ingrowth and neovascularization. Tendinopathy affects both athletes and the general population significantly, with up to 45% of cases eventually requiring surgical intervention despite conventional treatments. Recent advances highlight neurogenic mechanisms, such as nociceptive and autonomic fiber proliferation, as central to the pathology of chronic tendon pain, shifting focus toward targeted procedural interventions. The present investigation evaluates the efficacy and safety of interventions targeting chronic tendon neurogenesis, considered to be a major regulator of chronic tendon pain. The study focuses on procedural treatments, encompassing both percutaneous and surgical approaches, to manage tendinopathy effectively. RECENT FINDINGS: A systematic review included eleven clinical studies investigating interventions targeting nerve ingrowth, such as high-volume injections (HVIs; including high-volume distension injection [HVDI] and high-volume image-guided injection [HVIGI]), sclerosing injections, radiofrequency microtenotomy, minimally invasive stripping, electrocoagulation therapy, and surgical procedures. These studies demonstrated moderate methodological quality, with MINORS scores ranging from 10 to 13. The pooled analysis of outcomes showed a mean reduction in VAS pain scores of 33.15 mm (SD: 17.70 mm), indicating significant pain relief. Functional improvement was also notable, with a pooled mean change in VAS function scores of 29.28 mm (SD: 23.64 mm). In addition, the pooled mean improvement in VISA scores was 23.90 points (SD: 18.98 points), while the pooled mean change in disability levels was 3.20 (SD: 25.0), highlighting the positive impact of these interventions in reducing functional impairment. Collectively, these findings support the efficacy of procedural treatments targeting neurogenic mechanisms in the management of chronic tendinopathy. This review included eleven clinical studies evaluating six types of interventional procedures. Interventions focusing on nerve ingrowth mechanisms demonstrated promising outcomes for chronic tendinopathy, significantly reducing pain and enhancing functional capabilities. Despite promising results, the variability in study quality, particularly in blinding, underscores the need for more robust trials. This study supports integrating neurogenic targeting strategies into clinical practice, which could potentially revolutionize treatment paradigms in tendinopathy within pain medicine.
Efficacy of Combined Suprascapular Block and Axillary Nerve Block for Post-Operative Pain Management in Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Narrative Review.
Tyler SD, Bhuchakra HP, Kim J … +5 more , Ahmadzadeh S, Allampalli V, Shekoohi S, Abd-Elsayed A, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396569 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Shoulder arthroplasty is associated with significant postoperative pain. Pain management following shoulder arthroplasty has been traditionally treated using interscalene block (ISB) and systemic opioi...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Shoulder arthroplasty is associated with significant postoperative pain. Pain management following shoulder arthroplasty has been traditionally treated using interscalene block (ISB) and systemic opioids. However, these techniques are limited by short analgesic duration, respiratory complications, and a high risk of opioid dependence. Surgeons have considered the benefits of a multimodal approach via the suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) combined with an axillary nerve block (ANB) for managing postoperative pain following shoulder arthroplasty.The present investigation aims to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and clinical utility of a combined suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) and axillary nerve block (ANB) as an alternative to ISB for postoperative analgesia in shoulder arthroplasty. A comprehensive literature search was conducted and particular attention was given to outcomes such as pain control, opioid consumption, adverse events, and patient-specific considerations. RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple studies demonstrate that SSNB + ANB provides comparable pain control to ISB while significantly reducing the risk of phrenic nerve paralysis, rebound hyperalgesia, and opioid-related complications. SSNB alone offers diaphragmatic-sparing benefits but may have limited analgesic coverage. When paired with ANB, the dual-block technique achieves broader sensory blockade and improved patient satisfaction. Recent advances in ultrasound-guided delivery and long-acting adjuvants, such as liposomal bupivacaine, dexmedetomidine, and dexamethasone, further enhance block duration and safety. The combined SSNB and ANB represents a safe, effective, patient-centered alternative to ISB for postoperative analgesia in shoulder arthroplasty. Its favorable safety profile and comparable efficacy make it especially valuable in high-risk populations and in settings aiming to reduce opioid reliance.
Efficacy and Emerging Role of Erector Spinae Plane Block for Pain Management during Labor.
Kaye AD, Thomassen AS, Coreil CB … +8 more , Kazmi RH, Vu JN, MacDonald EM, Dufrene KD, Ahmadzadeh S, Bass D, Kataria S, Shekoohi S
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396543 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has emerged as a novel regional anesthesia technique for managing pain during labor, providing an effective alternative to traditional methods. The present investi...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has emerged as a novel regional anesthesia technique for managing pain during labor, providing an effective alternative to traditional methods. The present investigation evaluates efficacy and safety as well as maternal satisfaction in labor pain management. RECENT FINDINGS: A comprehensive analysis of patients receiving ESPB was conducted, comparing outcomes to those receiving standard analgesia, such as epidural anesthesia. Results show that the ESPB provided significant pain relief during labor, with comparable or superior efficacy to traditional methods. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and its favorable side effect profile, including reduced motor blockade and improved mobility during labor. The ESPB was also associated with a lower risk of complications, such as hypotension, commonly observed with epidural techniques. Furthermore, the technique's simplicity and versatility make it an attractive option for obstetric anesthesia providers, particularly in settings where epidural placement may be contraindicated or those with limited resources. This study explores the importance of exploring alternative pain management strategies that prioritize maternal comfort, safety, and overall labor experience. By reducing pain effectively while maintaining maternal mobility and minimizing adverse effects, the ESPB offers a patient-centered approach to labor analgesia. Future research should focus on optimizing regimens and long-term outcomes for both mothers and neonates. The findings support ESPB as a valuable addition to the arsenal of pain management options during labor.
Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Scribing for Chronic Pain Care: A Narrative Review.
Yost C, Jumreornvong O, Hasoon JJ … +12 more , Ruan QZ, Ang SP, Palumbo P, Bianco GL, Yong RJ, Zetter G, Christo PJ, Kaye AD, Hilger HJ, Chung M, Duszynski B, Robinson CL
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396542 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Medical documentation is a significant pillar of healthcare, enabling quality care, legal protection, billing and reimbursement, and collaboration between physicians. However, it is time-consuming and...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Medical documentation is a significant pillar of healthcare, enabling quality care, legal protection, billing and reimbursement, and collaboration between physicians. However, it is time-consuming and resource-intensive, posing a significant burden on chronic pain physicians, leading to outcomes such as increased work stress, diminished patient-physician quality time, and burnout. A range of ambient artificial intelligence (AI)-powered scribes have been developed to document based on listening to the patient-doctor interactions. These scribes utilize voice recognition and data processing capabilities to summarize and interpret patient-physician conversations, freeing physicians' time and resources and refocusing their efforts on core aspects of patient care. RECENT FINDINGS: Studies indicate that ambient AI scribes can score significantly higher than traditional notetaking on critical metrics such as completeness, conciseness, and accuracy. Additionally, they have demonstrated the potential to reduce time spent on documentation and cognitive workload while enhancing the quality of the consultation experience. Common challenges include errors, patient autonomy and privacy risks, and broader ethical implications. CONCLUSION: While still in its early stages, AI-assisted documentation presents a possible solution to persistent issues in healthcare, such as administrative overload, physician burnout, and documentation-related errors. However, realizing its full potential requires addressing concerns with accuracy, privacy, and trust. The successful implementation of AI in clinical documentation will depend on striking a balance between innovation and safeguards, ensuring that such systems support patient care without compromising ethical standards or clinical safety within pain management, including the broader field of medicine.
Efficacy and Emerging Role of Suprascapular Nerve Block for Pain Management after Shoulder Surgeries.
Kaye AD, Enache AJ, Wester GC … +7 more , Johnson L, Gremillion M, Thomassen AS, Ahmadzadeh S, Gennuso SA, Drinkard J, Shekoohi S
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396539 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Postoperative pain management is an important aspect of shoulder surgery as it directly influences patient recovery, satisfaction, and the overall success of surgical interventions. While the interscal...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Postoperative pain management is an important aspect of shoulder surgery as it directly influences patient recovery, satisfaction, and the overall success of surgical interventions. While the interscalene nerve block (ISB) has been the standard approach for managing pain in these procedures, it is accompanied by a range of adverse effects, including phrenic nerve paralysis and respiratory complications. These drawbacks can complicate recovery and limit rehabilitation efforts. RECENT FINDINGS: In recent years, the suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) has gained use as a promising alternative for postoperative analgesia in shoulder surgeries, particularly in arthroscopic procedures. This review focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the SSNB, exploring its mechanism of action and comparing its efficacy, safety, and clinical benefits to the ISB. Evidence suggests that SSNB effectively targets the suprascapular nerve, which innervates key structures of the shoulder, providing adequate analgesia with a decreased risk of complications typically associated with ISB. The SSNB is also advantageous in the context of ongoing efforts within healthcare to identify safer, effective opioid-sparing pain management strategies. As the demand for effective pain relief continues to grow, the SSNB stands out as a viable option that could transform the approach to postoperative pain management in shoulder surgery.
Efficacy of Ketamine Infusion for Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder in Patients with Chronic Pain: a Narrative Review.
Kaye AD, Wolf MC, Dufour SI … +4 more , Haynes AT, Potharaju P, Shekoohi S, Ahmadzadeh S
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396477 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain and opioid use disorder (OUD) are highly prevalent and frequently co-occurring conditions that pose complex treatment challenges. While opioids are effective for pain management, prolonged...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain and opioid use disorder (OUD) are highly prevalent and frequently co-occurring conditions that pose complex treatment challenges. While opioids are effective for pain management, prolonged use significantly enhances risk of developing substance dependence. Conversely, addiction-focused therapies often fail to relieve persistent somatic pain. RECENT FINDINGS: Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, has emerged as a novel adjunctive treatment with potential to address chronic pain and substance use disorders concurrently. The present investigation examines the role of intravenous ketamine infusions in cases with coexisting chronic pain and OUD. It explores pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic applications, clinical efficacy, and safety considerations of ketamine. Ketamine primarily acts by blocking NMDA receptors, which are central to glutamatergic signaling. This inhibition reduces neural excitability and promotes neuroplastic changes, including upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein associated with synaptic remodeling and recovery within pain and addiction pathways. These mechanisms are likely to contribute to ketamine mediated dual efficacy in managing nociceptive symptoms and reducing opioid dependence. Clinical studies suggest that ketamine may reduce pain severity, decrease opioid consumption, and alleviate withdrawal symptoms in select populations. While early evidence supports ketamine's use, its side effect profile, including dissociative symptoms, sympathomimetic activity, and potential for misuse, necessitates careful patient selection, monitoring, and oversight. Evidence remains limited by inadequate sample sizes, non-standardized protocols, and short follow-up periods. Despite these limitations, ketamine remains a promising adjunct in multimodal care, especially when conventional therapies are ineffective. Ongoing research is essential to refine protocols and to explore integration with behavioral and pharmacologic addiction interventions.
Digital Media Use in Adolescents with Migraine: A Topical Review.
Langdon R, Gioia G, Law E
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396410 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF TOPICAL REVIEW: In this topical review, we aim to (1) overview relevant theoretical models on the impact of digital media use on adolescent health and well-being, (2) propose a new conceptual framework for con...
PURPOSE OF TOPICAL REVIEW: In this topical review, we aim to (1) overview relevant theoretical models on the impact of digital media use on adolescent health and well-being, (2) propose a new conceptual framework for considering digital media use in adolescent migraine, and (3) highlight future directions for research and clinical care in this area. RECENT FINDINGS: Theoretical models on the impact of digital media on adolescent health and well-being have shifted away from screen time duration in favor of ecological approaches viewing youth digital media use through a developmental systems lens. Although adolescents with migraine are known high users of digital media, little is known about their context and motivations of use to inform clinical practice. We propose an integrative framework of digital media use in pediatric migraine that considers reciprocal interactions of individual, parent/family, and structural digital media use factors in relation to migraine symptoms and associated disability, as well as potential moderators such as age, sex, sleep, and mental health. Research on problematic and adaptive digital media use in adolescents with migraine is needed to determine whether and how to tailor clinical recommendations for digital media use in the general adolescent population to address the unique treatment needs of adolescents with migraine.
The Efficacy and Safety of Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Pain Management in Patients with Rib Fractures: a Narrative Review.
Kaye AD, Fagan JJ, Thomassen AS … +8 more , LaHaye LC, Cassagne GA, Ardoin A, Fox CJ, Ahmadzadeh S, Heisler M, Drinkard J, Shekoohi S
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396396 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Rib fractures, commonly resulting from blunt thoracic trauma, contribute significantly to patient morbidity related to severe pain and associated complications, including atelectasis, pneumonia, and ac...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Rib fractures, commonly resulting from blunt thoracic trauma, contribute significantly to patient morbidity related to severe pain and associated complications, including atelectasis, pneumonia, and acute respiratory failure. Effective pain management is crucial for minimizing these complications, optimizing respiratory function, and facilitating recovery. RECENT FINDINGS: Traditional methods such as NSAIDs, systemic opioids, intercostal nerve blocks, and surgical interventions provide relief but are associated with limitations, including risks of respiratory depression, sedation, infection, and procedural complications. These risks underscore the need for alternative strategies with improved safety profiles. The serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) has emerged as a promising regional anesthesia technique for managing rib fracture pain. Administered under ultrasound guidance, SAPB has shown a low risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or pneumothorax, enhancing its appeal as a minimally invasive approach. Research has demonstrated SAPB's efficacy in reducing pain scores, minimizing opioid requirements, and improving respiratory function and mobility. By decreasing opioid dependence, SAPB lowers the risk of opioid-related adverse effects and facilitates faster patient recovery. Its favorable safety profile and effectiveness make SAPB a valuable option in managing rib fracture pain, particularly in high-risk populations. Despite its advantages, further studies are needed to optimize SAPB techniques, establish standardized protocols, and investigate long-term outcomes. SAPB represents a significant advancement in rib fracture pain management, highlighting the growing role of regional anesthesia in modern medicine.
Periosteal Osteosarcoma: Emerging Clinical Concepts, Evolving Treatment Options: A Narrative Review.
Bratton MB, Pirzadah HA, Starns MJ … +4 more , Islam RK, Shekoohi S, Abd-Elsayed A, Kaye AD
Curr Pain Headache Rep · 2025 Dec · PMID 41396348 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Periosteal osteosarcomas are rare bone tumors that comprise less than 2% of all bone malignancies. The tumor was previously thought to affect the diaphysis of long bones solely, but Recent case reports...
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Periosteal osteosarcomas are rare bone tumors that comprise less than 2% of all bone malignancies. The tumor was previously thought to affect the diaphysis of long bones solely, but Recent case reports have demonstrated its existence in the clavicle, mandible, and scapula. RECENT FINDINGS: Several factors, including stage, grade, and medullary invasion primarily drive survival and recurrence of periosteal osteosarcomas. Related to its rarity, little data currently exists regarding optimum treatment strategies, including limb amputation, surgical resection, and chemotherapy in the neoadjuvant/adjuvant setting. In this regard, bone pain is the most common manifestation. Pain treatment can include medications such as oral or transdermal opioids. Adjuvant drugs can reduce inflammation and neuropathic pain, including corticosteroids, gabapentinoid agents such as gabapentin or pregabalin, lidocaine patches, tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and desipramine, or selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors such as duloxetine and venlafaxine. More advanced pain treatment interventions can be provided by interventional pain medicine physicians, such as radiofrequency ablation, peripheral nerve stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, or intrathecal drug delivery systems, when conventional opioids and adjuvants do not adequately provide relief. Molecular workups of case reports have shown common mutations, such as the p53 gene, which may provide utility for future molecular targets. The present investigation aims to synthesize currently available data on periosteal osteosarcomas, including common clinical, histologic, and radiographic presentations. In addition, this review aims to further examine the potential for biomarkers and provide recommendations for treatment and future research direction.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe