Leoni MLG, Mercieri M, Gazzeri R
… +5 more, Cascella M, Rekatsina M, Viswanath O, Pasqualucci A, Varrassi G
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40106018
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BACKGROUND: The term "mixed pain" is frequently used in clinical practice to describe the coexistence of nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain mechanisms. However, its inconsistent use and lack of a formal defin...BACKGROUND: The term "mixed pain" is frequently used in clinical practice to describe the coexistence of nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain mechanisms. However, its inconsistent use and lack of a formal definition warrant further investigation. This bibliometric analysis aims to explore publication trends, research networks, and key themes in mixed pain literature. METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection. The search was performed in February 2024, with journal rankings obtained from Journal Citation Reports™ 2022 (Clarivate Analytics). Extracted data included publication trends, citation analysis, co-authorship networks, and keyword mapping. RESULTS: A total of 229 publications were identified, demonstrating an increasing trend in both publication volume and citations. Most studies were published in high-ranking Q1 journals as research (77%) and review articles (19%). The USA (21%), Italy (15%), and Germany (12%) were the leading contributors, yet global collaboration was weak, with limited co-authorship connections except within the USA. The keyword analysis revealed five major research clusters, with "neuropathic pain," "management," and "quality of life" emerging as central themes. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the progressive increase in mixed pain articles in highly ranked journals, this bibliometric analysis highlighted the absence of a well-structured collaborative network among authors and a lack of clear connections between keywords. Given the critical clinical implications of mixed pain, further high-quality studies on this topic and enhanced international collaborations are recommended.
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40100299
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hip osteoarthritis constitutes a prevalent condition among individuals aged 55 and above, serving as one of the primary triggers for joint discomfort and impairment, and marking a substantial origin of...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hip osteoarthritis constitutes a prevalent condition among individuals aged 55 and above, serving as one of the primary triggers for joint discomfort and impairment, and marking a substantial origin of chronic pain particularly affecting the elderly population. Our article provides an exhaustive summary of the mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, and potential adverse consequences associated with novel therapeutic modalities including glucocorticoids, hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells, and stromal vascular fraction. Concurrently, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the clinical efficacy and potential applications of various medications. RECENT FINDINGS: In comparison to physical therapy, oral analgesics, and other nonsurgical modalities, intra-articular injection therapy is characterized by enhanced safety and greater efficacy. Moreover, when contrasted with surgical intervention, intra-articular injection demonstrates a lower degree of invasiveness and incurs fewer adverse reactions. Intra-articular treatments have shown excellent local efficacy while significantly minimizing adverse reactions in patients. These methods hold significant potential for development but require comprehensive research and thorough discussion within the academic community.
INTRODUCTION: Post-amputation pain, including residual limb pain (RLP) and phantom limb pain (PLP), can affect the outcome of surgery and have an impact on quality of life. Effective management of acute post-amputation p...INTRODUCTION: Post-amputation pain, including residual limb pain (RLP) and phantom limb pain (PLP), can affect the outcome of surgery and have an impact on quality of life. Effective management of acute post-amputation pain requires a multidisciplinary approach with collaboration among the surgical and anesthesia teams to optimize pain management. A systematic-narrative hybrid review was conducted to assess and report the effectiveness of various interventions in perioperative pain management for amputation surgery. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for studies evaluating interventional and/or pharmacological approaches to managing perioperative pain in major extremity amputation surgery. The data collected included treatment options, average dosage and/or duration of treatments, and reported pain outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 27 studies evaluating interventions, 8 addressed neuraxial or perineural analgesia, 16 focused on peripheral nerve blocks (PNB), 2 examined peripheral nerve stimulators (PNS), and 1 investigated transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Preoperative epidural analgesia was associated with a reduced incidence of postoperative pain. PNS, PNB, and catheter-based infusions were found to be effective in managing postoperative pain. The role of ketamine in treating post-amputation pain yielded mixed results, while other pharmacological agents, such as valproic acid and gabapentin, demonstrated limited efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: While numerous pain interventions are available, no single approach has been shown to be superior. A multimodal strategy, incorporating PNBs, preoperative pain control, and potentially ketamine, appears to provide the most comprehensive pain management strategy. Further long-term prospective studies are required to refine and optimize pain management techniques for major extremity amputation surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III-Systematic reviews.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review evaluates the effectiveness of sacroiliac joint injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treating low back and lower extremity pain. A systematic analy...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review evaluates the effectiveness of sacroiliac joint injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treating low back and lower extremity pain. A systematic analysis was conducted to assess the impact of PRP and MSC injections on managing these conditions. RECENT FINDINGS: In recent years, several cell-based therapies, including the injection of MSCs and PRP into the sacroiliac joints, have been proposed for the management of low back pain. Emerging clinical evidence supporting their use appears promising. The present systematic review identified 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 3 observational studies that met inclusion criteria based on strict methodological quality and bias assessments. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework and qualitative analysis synthesis determined evidence levels as IV (limited) with a weak recommendation.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDS) are integral to managing chronic pain and spasticity, especially in oncology patients who may also require radiation therapy (RT). Concerns regarding the potent...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDS) are integral to managing chronic pain and spasticity, especially in oncology patients who may also require radiation therapy (RT). Concerns regarding the potential effects of ionizing radiation on IDDS functionality have been raised, with limited but growing evidence on device resilience. This review summarizes the current literature on radiation-induced IDDS malfunctions, identifies key risk factors, and discusses mitigation strategies. RECENT FINDINGS: Although most IDDS remain functional during RT, isolated cases of radiation-induced pump failure have been reported. Factors such as radiation dose, proximity to the treatment field, and shielding methods influence device susceptibility to failure. Case studies and retrospective reviews have suggested that cumulative doses above 10 Gy may increase malfunction risks, though some devices have withstood doses as high as 36 Gy without failure. Advances in RT, including proton therapy and stereotactic techniques, may reduce exposure to IDDS. Current recommendations emphasize preemptive planning, shielding strategies, and close post-radiation monitoring to mitigate these potential risks. RT presents unique challenges for patients with IDDS, requiring a multidisciplinary approach to balance cancer treatment efficacy with device integrity. While modern IDDS demonstrate resilience to radiation exposure, careful consideration of radiation dose thresholds, device placement, and shielding is needed. Given the lack of standardized guidelines, more research is needed to establish evidence-based protocols to optimize patient safety and device performance during RT.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to assess the effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in treating axial spinal pain originating from the facet joints. A systematic eva...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to assess the effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in treating axial spinal pain originating from the facet joints. A systematic evaluation of available evidence on these biological therapies was conducted to determine their clinical utility. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies emphasize the therapeutic promise of intraarticular biologics, including MSCs, PRP, and alpha-2-macroglobulin, in managing facet joint-related axial spinal pain. Emerging evidence suggests improvements in pain relief, physical function, and quality of life following these treatments. Based on our search criteria, 20 publications were identified and considered for inclusion. Of these, 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 6 observational studies met the inclusion criteria. Among the RCTs, 3 trials involved lumbar facet joints, and one trial involved cervical facet joints using PRP. Among the observational studies, 4 studies used PRP, with 3 focusing on the lumbar spine and one study, with 2 publications, on the cervical spine, and only 2 studies evaluated stem cell treatments. The summary of evidence utilizing various criteria, including Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) evidence synthesis, the evidence for PRP injections in facet joints is Level II, or moderate, and Level IV, or limited, overall, with low certainty. For PRP, the recommendation is moderate, and for MSCs, the recommendation is weak.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Herein we review recent trends in opioid prescribing, the rise in office-based surgeries, and propose a framework to minimize opioid consumption following such procedures. RECENT FINDINGS: Outpatient s...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Herein we review recent trends in opioid prescribing, the rise in office-based surgeries, and propose a framework to minimize opioid consumption following such procedures. RECENT FINDINGS: Outpatient surgical procedures are increasing year over year in the United States. This observed increase is expected to continue due to the financial incentives to perform outpatient procedures. Office-based surgery is a setting that is expected to have tremendous growth. Still, currently there are scant safety guidelines concerning how to manage perioperative pain related to surgeries in this setting safely and effectively. Opioid abuse is rampant across the United States, and we anticipate that an increase in outpatient procedures will create a rise in opioid prescribing without appropriate discourse and planning. There are a variety of systematic factors in play to minimize opioid consumption after office-based surgery that must be considered at each operative phase. Careful planning and consideration of the multitude of factors can increase patient satisfaction while minimizing opioid prescriptions.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, reducing quality of life and posing a major healthcare challenge. This review aims to explore advancements in neurosurgical interventions for managing chronic p...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, reducing quality of life and posing a major healthcare challenge. This review aims to explore advancements in neurosurgical interventions for managing chronic pain, focusing on the latest neuromodulation techniques, and addressing how these innovations may offer alternative solutions for these patients. RECENT FINDINGS: We reviewed advances in high-frequency spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, and closed-loop neuromodulation systems, which optimize precision in pain control and reduce adverse effects. Improvements in targeted drug delivery enabled more accurate and sustained management of pain, with fewer unfavorable effects than traditional therapies. Additionally, we discussed emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence for personalized treatment adjustment, and gene therapy for addressing pain at a molecular level, innovations that also hold promise for future applications. Neurosurgical techniques have the potential to transform chronic pain management, offering improved control with fewer complications. However, challenges remain regarding accessibility, cost, and long-term efficacy. Further research is needed to refine, expand access, and enhance effectiveness.
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40029442
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to present current evidence on the multifaceted approach required for managing pediatric migraine. This includes identifying migraine triggers, managing acute pain episode...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to present current evidence on the multifaceted approach required for managing pediatric migraine. This includes identifying migraine triggers, managing acute pain episodes, and implementing preventive strategies. The review focuses on non-pharmacological interventions, such as behavioral and lifestyle modifications. By exploring these aspects, the review seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of effective migraine management in children and adolescents. RECENT FINDINGS: Non-pharmacological treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, and biofeedback are effective alternatives to medication. Nutraceuticals and dietary considerations, including ketogenic diet, alongside education and regular follow-ups, optimize outcomes. Integrating tools for tracking migraine patterns and training for clinicians, parents, and patients enhances treatment effectiveness. Engaging adolescents and their families through education and active participation is essential for improving their quality of life. This review presents available evidence of non-pharmacological strategies for managing episodic migraine in pediatrics. CBT and lifestyle modification are documented for their effect. Future research is required to create evidence-based, comprehensive treatment plans including these and other non-pharmacological strategies tailored to individual needs.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Artificial intelligence (AI) has impacted different aspects of headache medicine, from history taking and diagnosis to drug development. AI has been shown to have predictive modeling in helping diagnos...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Artificial intelligence (AI) has impacted different aspects of headache medicine, from history taking and diagnosis to drug development. AI has been shown to have predictive modeling in helping diagnose migraine and assist with patient care. Additionally, this technology has been adapted to help non-headache specialists with headache management. Similar practices have expanded to help diagnose cluster headache. AI has also been used to help streamline patient visits, and identify new drug targets. RECENT FINDINGS: Various forms of AI models have been implemented in headache medicine; these have ranged from diagnosis engines to models helping track headache triggers. Additionally, AI has been used to assist in clinical trials and to help predict placebo responses to different medications. There are still several limitations with AI in setting of headache medicine. AI and diagnosis models have a role to play in headache medicine. However, technology is still in its infancy and limitations do exist.
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Feb · PMID 39998706
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: CGRP targeting therapies have revolutionized the migraine preventive space, introducing novel migraine-specific therapies to improve headache care. Four monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are approved for us...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: CGRP targeting therapies have revolutionized the migraine preventive space, introducing novel migraine-specific therapies to improve headache care. Four monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are approved for use in prevention of episodic migraines. Erenumab (AMG334), fremanezumab (TEV48125), and galcanezumab (LY2951742) are monthly subcutaneous injections, while eptinezumab (ALD403) provides an intravenous infusion option. This review aims to examine the clinical evidence for the safety and efficacy of CGRP-targeted mAbs in the prevention of episodic migraines with a focus on recent studies (2023-2024). RECENT FINDINGS: Long-term studies reveal ongoing safety and efficacy in recent literature for all 4 monoclonal antibodies. These investigations have built evidence for earlier access to CGRP treatment as they increase quality of life and reduce monthly migraine days while being better tolerated than non-specific migraine preventative therapies. These studies support the recent 2024 AHS consensus statement recommending CGRP monoclonal antibodies be considered as first-line preventive treatment in episodic migraine.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to discuss about the potential roles of neuropsychological instruments and tasks in the evaluation of dependence behaviors shared by medication-overuse headache (MOH) and substance use...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to discuss about the potential roles of neuropsychological instruments and tasks in the evaluation of dependence behaviors shared by medication-overuse headache (MOH) and substance use disorders (SUDs). RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies utilizing criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) for SUDs have revealed that MOH patients often exhibit impaired control over medication use, along with tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. In addition, dependence questionnaires such as the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire and the Severity of Dependence Scale have shown a strong correlation between MOH and higher dependence scores, with predictive value for treatment outcomes. Furthermore, investigations into decision-making processes with the Iowa Gambling Task have suggested potential parallels between MOH and SUDs. MOH patients exhibit biased decision-making, particularly in conditions of ambiguity, possibly predisposing them to favor immediate pain relief over long-term consequences. This suggests a potential mechanism involving emotional feedback processing in MOH. This review underscores the importance of recognizing dependence-like behaviors in MOH patients and highlights the potential utility of neuropsychological instruments and tasks in advancing the understanding of MOH pathophysiology. The findings suggest that MOH shares characteristics with substance dependence, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions in MOH management. Understanding the neurobehavioral aspects of MOH may lead to more effective therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating dependence and improving long-term outcomes.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic axial spinal pain is a leading cause of disability and healthcare spending in the United States. A common source of axial spinal pain is the facet joint. Current treatments for facet joint-medi...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic axial spinal pain is a leading cause of disability and healthcare spending in the United States. A common source of axial spinal pain is the facet joint. Current treatments for facet joint-mediated pain include conservative treatments and interventions such as intra-articular facet joint injections (FJI), medial branch blocks (MBB), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). While facet joint interventions are one of the most common spinal procedures, current scientific literature demonstrates conflicting results regarding the use of corticosteroids in these interventions. RECENT FINDINGS: A systematic review was conducted to determine the efficacy of local corticosteroid usage in facet joint interventions for treating chronic axial spinal pain. Separate literature searches were performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane Library to evaluate the use of local corticosteroids in intra-articular FJI, MBB, and for the prevention of post-neurotomy neuritis (PNN). Inclusion criteria included a randomized clinical trial (RCT) or control trial while unique inclusion criteria was used for the differing uses of local corticosteroids. The exclusion criteria for studies included (i) studies written in a non-English language; (ii) articles without full-text access or abstract-only papers; (iii) and studies focused on non-human subjects. Final literature searches were conducted in August 2024. Two studies with 131 patients, four studies with 440 patients, and two studies with 203 patients were selected for the assessment of local corticosteroid use on intra-articular FJI, MBB, and PNN, respectively. A quality assessment tool recommended by The Cochrane Collaboration was used to assess bias risk in included studies. Results were synthesized through a meta-analysis to evaluate intra-articular FJI while a literature analysis was completed to investigate MBB and PNN. This study found that the use of corticosteroid intra-articular FJI and MBB provides significant improvement in pain relief and functionality from baseline for the treatment of lower back pain and chronic axial spinal pain, respectively. However, the use of corticosteroids post-RFA has not been proven to reduce the occurrence of PNN. Limitations to the studies used included blinding bias, absence of placebo groups, subjective inclusion criteria, limited generalizability and small sample sizes.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hip surgeries are commonly associated with significant postoperative pain, which can hinder early mobilization, prolong hospital stays, and increase healthcare costs. Effective pain management in this...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hip surgeries are commonly associated with significant postoperative pain, which can hinder early mobilization, prolong hospital stays, and increase healthcare costs. Effective pain management in this patient population is crucial to improving outcomes and reducing complications. RECENT FINDINGS: Traditional pain control methods, such as systemic opioids, are often associated with adverse effects, including respiratory depression, nausea, and delayed recovery. Regional anesthesia techniques, particularly the suprainguinal fascia iliaca block (SFIB), have gained attention for the potential to provide targeted, long-lasting analgesia with fewer systemic side effects. CONCLUSION: This narrative review evaluates efficacy of the SFIB, an effective and safe technique for postoperative pain management in hip surgeries. The fascia iliaca block, initially described as a low-volume alternative to the lumbar plexus block, has evolved, with the suprainguinal approach demonstrating particular promise. By accessing the lumbar plexus and blocking the femoral, obturator, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves, the SIFIB provides broad analgesia to the hip region. Recent studies have highlighted that, compared to traditional infrainguinal approaches, the suprainguinal technique offers superior spread and more consistent pain control related to its targeted proximity to the inguinal ligament. Consequently, this technique may optimize perioperative pain management and improve functional recovery in patients undergoing hip surgeries.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the main health problems imposing a significant burden both personally and socially. It is estimated that 70-85% of people experience LBP during their lifetime, wit...BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the main health problems imposing a significant burden both personally and socially. It is estimated that 70-85% of people experience LBP during their lifetime, with nearly 20% of cases becoming chronic (CLBP). Interest in psychosocial factors and their correlations with the onset and outcome of low back pain has increased in recent years. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate the validity and promote the adoption of psychological therapies delivered through remote platforms for the treatment and management of chronic pain related to LBP. METHODS: The clinical studies we reviewed in our research were identified from the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Out of the initial 11,859 studies, only 20 met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The results of our study confirm the effectiveness of psychological therapy delivered remotely in the treatment and management of chronic pain caused by low back pain. This highlights the importance of psychological intervention to improve the quality of life for these patients. Remote therapy can indeed facilitate treatment adherence and patient empowerment. CONCLUSION: Living with a chronic illness requires continuous support and the development of personalized interventions where the patient is accompanied and supported daily through active intervention. This underscores the importance of expanding the availability of traditionally available psychological strategies to remote delivery to support a growing number of people affected by CLBP.
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Feb · PMID 39969673
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Prosopagnosia is a neurological phenotype, characterized by the inability to recognize faces, typically resulting from damage or dysfunction in specific brain regions such as the fusiform gyrus. In con...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Prosopagnosia is a neurological phenotype, characterized by the inability to recognize faces, typically resulting from damage or dysfunction in specific brain regions such as the fusiform gyrus. In contrast, migraine is a disease process, a complex neurological disorder with a range of symptoms including severe headache and visual disturbances. RECENT FINDINGS: The brain regions involved in migraine and prosopagnosia are located in close proximity to each other, and perhaps as an unsurprising yet rarely reported result of this, there have been several cases of migraineurs, the majority presenting with aura, who manifested prosopagnosia as a symptom during an attack. While rarely reported, the fact that prosopagnosia can occasionally manifest during migraine episodes, particularly during the aura phase, emphasizes the importance of exploring the cortical processes involved in both conditions. This review discusses migraine and prosopagnosia in the context of comorbidity, explores and summarizes current and key historical knowledge on the reported occurrences of prosopagnosia manifesting as a symptom of migraine, and emphasizes the importance of reporting this phenomenon.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Allodynia is characterized by a painful response to a non-noxious stimulus. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing, and management a...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Allodynia is characterized by a painful response to a non-noxious stimulus. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing, and management approaches for the causes of allodynia. RECENT FINDINGS: Allodynia remains difficult to evaluate and manage. Despite ongoing research, significant progress is still needed to optimize the management of allodynia. Allodynia is a debilitating condition that can be difficult to treat. Diagnostic modalities and treatment options are limited. Advancements in diagnostic and treatment options are necessary to improve patient care.
Cocores AN, Smirnoff L, Greco G
… +2 more, Herrera R, Monteith TS
Curr Pain Headache Rep
· 2025 Feb · PMID 39954214
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Neuromodulation techniques currently available for headache management are reviewed in this article, with a focus on recent advances in non-invasive devices for migraine and trigeminal autonomic cephal...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Neuromodulation techniques currently available for headache management are reviewed in this article, with a focus on recent advances in non-invasive devices for migraine and trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias. RECENT FINDINGS: The currently available FDA-cleared non-invasive devices for migraine include transcutaneous supraorbital and supratrochlear nerve stimulation, single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS), external concurrent occipital and trigeminal neurostimulation (eCOT-NS), remote electrical neuromodulation (REN), and non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation (nVNS) with indications for migraine and trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias. Emerging non-invasive techniques being explored for use in migraine include transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), kinetic oscillation stimulation (KOS), and auricular transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (at-VNS). In addition to primary headache, non-invasive neuromodulation is being investigated for comorbid conditions such as depression. Non-invasive neuromodulation devices remain a safe, well-tolerated, and effective therapy for patients with primarily migraine and trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias. Ongoing research is needed to determine efficacy in other headache disorders and comorbid conditions.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" injury characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage, formation of osteophytes, microfractures, and sclerosis. These physiological changes result in joint pai...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" injury characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage, formation of osteophytes, microfractures, and sclerosis. These physiological changes result in joint pain, stiffness, and deformity. One potential treatment for this is periosteal electrical dry needling. RECENT FINDINGS: We performed a systematic search for studies in PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane. Sources published from 2014 to the present were eligible for inclusion in the review. After an initial search, 48 studies were identified, 22 of which were duplicates that were subsequently removed. The remaining 26 were filtered by title and abstract, resulting in six studies approved for final analysis. Of the six, four found significant improvement in pain and mobility after dry needling was administered as either an adjuvant or stand-alone therapy. Electrical Dry Needling is a promising treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis. More large-scale randomized control trials are needed to evaluate its efficacy as a stand-alone treatment more fully. This review demonstrates some support for dry needling in alleviating knee pain and immobility. Future studies are needed to examine the long-term effects of dry needling and its comparative efficacy to standard treatment.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review assesses the role of wearable technologies in pain management, emphasizing their capability to transcend subjective pain evaluations with objective functional outcome tracking. We explore t...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review assesses the role of wearable technologies in pain management, emphasizing their capability to transcend subjective pain evaluations with objective functional outcome tracking. We explore the types and veracity of health metrics wearable devices track, illustrating how this technological evolution can significantly enhance patient care in the context of chronic pain prevention and management. RECENT FINDINGS: The advancements in modular wearable technology offer new avenues to track a variety of health outcomes, including aerobic capacity, physical activity, stress, and sleep quality. This provides objective measurements that can aid in the management of chronic conditions and can offer a more comprehensive assessment of a patient's pain and function. Although the initial approach to pain management that emphasized pain as the fifth vital sign had unintended devastating consequences, leveraging wearable technology for objective outcomes tracking presents an opportunity to optimize pain management strategies. Wearable technologies capture functional metrics that provide insight into many aspects of the biopsychosocial model of pain. Utilizing function as the key performance indicator has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and, ultimately, patient care.