Assess Pain Intensity Research Articles

The impact of orthopedic mattresses on the severity of pain and sleep quality in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial

Currently, there is insufficient research on the optimal sleep surface to improve sleep quality and reduce lower back pain. Studying orthopedic mattresses in this context could be a promising direction. Objective: To assess the impact of orthopedic mattresses on pain severity and sleep quality. Materials and Methods: From September to December 2023, we conducted a randomized controlled trial involving volunteers with chronic lower back pain. Participants were randomized into 4 groups: 3 using orthopedic mattresses of varying firmness (firm, medium, and soft) and 1 control group (with a non-orthopedic mattress). Observations were made over 4 weeks, assessing pain intensity and sleep quality through a visual analog scale and sleep quality questionnaire. Results: Out of 117 screened volunteers, 86 were included, and 5 withdrew, leaving 81 participants: 21 in the fi rm group, 20 in the medium, 20 in the soft, and 20 in the control group. No differences were found in participant characteristics. Significant pain reduction was noted in all groups (p < 0.001), with considerable sleep quality improvement in the 3 experimental groups (p < 0.001) but not in the control (p = 0.101). Conclusion: Using orthopedic mattresses for 4 weeks significantly reduced lower back pain and improved sleep quality.

The effects of Neurodynamic Mobilization exercises on upper extremity pain, muscle strength, and functions in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomised controlled, single blinded study.

Manual therapy techniques are available for pain management in Multiple Sclerosis (MS); however, the results of neurodynamic mobilization (NM) are not known. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of NM exercises on pain, muscle strength and upper extremity functions in MS patients. Patients aged between 18 and 65 years diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting (RR) MS (n = 31) according to McDonald 2010 diagnostic criteria were included in the study. Patients were divided into the NM group (bilateral upper extremity NM and strengthening exercises) (n = 15) and the control group (bilateral strengthening exercises) (n = 16) by simple randomization. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (most severe and average score) was used to assess pain intensity, and Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) questionnaire was used to assess pain character. Muscle strength was evaluated with the digital muscle strength measurement device (Kforce Kinvent), manual skills were evaluated with the Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) and Manual Ability Measure-36 (MAM-36). Measurements were obtained from the most affected side, unilateral. The mean of the most severe score of VAS (p < 0.001), the average score of VAS (p < 0.001), and the LANSS in both groups (p < 0.05) decreased significantly. Shoulder flexor muscle strength was increased significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). Shoulder extensors, elbow flexors, and elbow extensors was increased significantly in NM group (p < 0.05). MAM-36 scores was increased significanty in both groups (p < 0.05). NHPT scores showed significant decrease in the NM group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of VAS, LANSS, muscle strength, MAM-36 and NHPT (p > 0.05). It was found that NM exercises added to upper extremity strengthening therapy in patients with MS reduced pain, increased muscle strength of shoulder extensors, elbow flexors, and elbow extensors, and improved manual dexterity. However, although positive effects were observed when NM exercises were added to the strengthening exercises, the results were found to be similar in these groups.

Prevalence and impact of scapular muscle pain among video gamers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad: A cross-sectional study

Scapular muscle pain is common among individuals who engage in prolonged video gaming sessions. Poor posture, repetitive movements, and extended screen time contribute to musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly in the muscles surrounding the scapula. With the rise in Esports and video gaming as a primary source of entertainment, there is a growing need to understand the prevalence and impact of scapular muscle pain among gamers. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of scapular muscle pain among video gamers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad and to investigate the impact of this pain on gaming performance and quality of life. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted over six months in various gaming centers, communities, and universities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. 100 male video gamers aged 15 to 40 were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Pain and functional limitations were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and Scapular Assistance Test. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Most participants (86%) were aged 15-25 years, with gaming hours ranging from 3-7 hours per day. Pain intensity assessment revealed that 59% of participants experienced moderate pain, while 8% reported severe pain. SPADI results indicated that 56% of gamers had very severe pain and disability. The Scapular Assistance Test showed that 68% of participants tested positive, indicating the presence of scapular muscle pain. Scapular muscle pain is prevalent among video gamers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, particularly younger gamers who engage in prolonged gaming sessions. The study highlights the need for interventions to address poor posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues in this population.

Efficacy of muscle energy technique with stretching versus muscle energy technique with myofascial release in upper cross syndrome

INTRODUCTION: Cervical pain represents one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders, with the potential for secondary complications if left untreated. The primary causes of neck pain are cervical spine and soft tissue disorders, while neck pain due to postural abnormalities is known as upper cross syndrome (UCS). Epidemiological studies indicate that neck pain is prevalent in the general population but is significantly more common among office workers. Optimal management strategies require further investigation to improve treatment outcomes. This study aims to evaluate and compare two therapeutic approaches for managing Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS): Muscle Energy Technique (MET) combined with Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR), and MET combined with Muscle Stretching Exercises. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This non-randomized, active-controlled trial enrolled 40 patients with neck pain, assigned to two intervention groups of 20 participants each: Muscle Energy Technique (MET) with Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR), and MET with Muscle Stretching Exercises. The study assessed pain intensity using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and forward head posture using the Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) at baseline and three weeks post-treatment. RESULTS: VAS score for pain showed a mean change of 1.7 and 1.8 in the MET with MFR group and MET with the Muscle Stretching Exercises group after 11 sessions. The CVA increased by 2.08° in the MET with MFR group and by 1.78° in the MET with the Muscle Stretching Exercises group. Both groups showed significant improvements in pain and forward head posture (p&lt;0.001), with no significant difference between the interventions. CONCLUSION: Both MET combined with MFR and MET with Muscle Stretching Exercises demonstrate improvement in pain and CVA.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN AND HOUSEHOLD ACTIVITIES AMONG HOUSEWIVES

Background: Musculoskeletal pain is a common health issue that can be acute or chronic, affecting bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Housewives, as integral contributors to household functioning, often engage in repetitive, physically demanding tasks that predispose them to musculoskeletal pain. Despite their significant role, limited research has been conducted to explore the impact of prolonged household activities on musculoskeletal health, particularly in regions like Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Understanding this relationship is essential to inform preventive strategies and improve their quality of life. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the association between musculoskeletal pain and household activities among housewives, focusing on its prevalence, affected anatomical sites, and relationship with the duration of household tasks. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 384 housewives from Bahawalpur City over three months, from December 2022 to February 2023. Data collection utilized the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and a self-structured questionnaire. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling to include housewives actively engaged in household activities. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Variables such as household tasks, pain intensity, and time spent on activities were examined to determine correlations and statistical significance. Results: The study revealed that cooking (90.4%), dishwashing (78.1%), chopping (68.2%), sweeping (61.2%), and washing clothes (66.4%) were the most frequently reported household activities. Pain predominantly affected the low back (62.2%), shoulder (52.6%), and neck (45.1%). Pain intensity assessment showed that 52.9% of participants experienced moderate pain, 30.2% reported mild pain, and 16.9% suffered severe pain. Time spent on household activities showed a significant correlation with pain severity, with prolonged working hours (&gt;8 hours) being associated with severe pain (p=0.00). Conclusion: The study concluded that musculoskeletal pain is significantly associated with prolonged household activities among housewives, with the low back, shoulder, and neck being the most commonly affected regions. These findings underscore the need for ergonomic interventions and preventive measures to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal disorders in this population.

The use of ozone therapy for the treatment and post-surgical management of patients treated with bilateral extraction of the included third mandibular molars

The use of ozone in medicine and dentistry is well-supported in the scientific literature, particularly for its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-edema effects. These benefits are achieved through reductions in pro-inflammatory substances, stimulation of neoangiogenesis, and enhanced production of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, ozone is pain-relieving by inactivating algogenic mediators and inducing endorphin release. Although ozone application devices are standard in conventional medicine, they are less so in dentistry and often have reduced performance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific ozone therapy device in managing postoperative pain and promoting healing in patients undergoing impacted third-molar extractions. Materials and methods: Patients scheduled for the extraction of impacted third molars were enrolled in a randomized split-mouth study to receive either ozone therapy or conventional antibiotic treatment. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) assessed pain intensity and healing progress. Results: Patients treated with ozone therapy reported significantly lower pain levels and demonstrated qualitatively improved healing compared to the control group, with statistical significance. Conclusions: The study supports the use of ozone therapy in routine dental surgical practice, highlighting its favorable cost/benefit profile. Ozone therapy can be beneficial for impacted third-molar surgeries and broader applications in oral surgery. Keywords: Ozone therapy in dentistry, OZONE DTA equipment, Third molar extraction and soft tissue healing.

The effectiveness of giving young coconut water in reducing dysmenorrhea symptoms: A case study of midwifery care

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is a common condition in women during menstruation, characterized by severe pain that can interfere with daily activities. The administration of medical therapy is often used to treat these symptoms, but natural approaches such as giving young coconut water are also starting to be considered. Objective: This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of giving young coconut water in reducing pain intensity in dysmenorrhea patients and provide an overview of the application of natural therapy-based obstetric care in patients with menstrual complaints. Methods: This study uses a case study design with a qualitative approach. The subject of the study was an adult woman who experienced primary dysmenorrhea. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and assessment of pain intensity using the VAS (Visual Analog Scale) scale before and after administering young coconut water. Result: The study showed a significant decrease in the intensity of dysmenorrhea pain after administering young coconut water. Before the administration of therapy, patients reported pain intensity at level 8 (scale 0-10), and after three days of administration of young coconut water, pain intensity decreased to level 3. Patients also reported feeling more comfortable and being able to continue their daily activities better. No significant side effects were found related to the consumption of young coconut water. I am injuring kei three mestiuia such does not feel jealous, the nature of the blood of meirah can bioactivity deingan good to know the absence of the current suidah in the absence of good. Conclusion: Giving young coconut water can be effective in reducing the symptoms of dysmenorrhea in patients who experience it. This therapy can be a safe and natural alternative to help relieve menstrual pain. It can be applied in obstetrics as part of a comprehensive approach to reproductive health care. Further research with larger samples is needed to reinforce these findings and explore the mechanism of action of young coconut water in dysmenorrhea

Assessment of pain intensity after total hip arthroplasty using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

This study aimed to assess pain intensity in patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The study was conducted between 2022 and 2023, enrolling 203 patients admitted to the Orthopedics Department. Participants self-reported their post-surgical pain 24 hours after THA by selecting a VAS rating that best represented their personal experience. Based on their diagnosis, participants were categorized into four relatively homogeneous groups: left-sided coxarthrosis, right-sided coxarthrosis, unilateral THA for bilateral coxarthrosis, and bilateral THA for bilateral coxarthrosis. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with frequency analysis performed using the chi-square (χ2) test. Pain intensity in patients undergoing uncemented THA ranged from mild irritation to pain requiring moderate analgesics. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences in pain frequencies across groups (χ2 (24, 203) = 37.192; P = 0.04), with variations largely attributable to the type of THA performed. VAS scores indicated that patients with unilateral THA for coxarthrosis reported moderate pain lasting up to 30 minutes, necessitating moderate-intensity analgesics. In contrast, participants undergoing bilateral THA experienced more severe pain, requiring the administration of strong analgesics for effective pain relief and increased functionality. Among surgical procedures, uncemented total hip prostheses were associated with the highest frequency of manageable pain, characterized as irritation or mild discomfort requiring moderate analgesics.

Gait assessment in patients with intra-articular calcaneal fractures after treatment with the Ilizarov method

BackgroundIntra-articular and comminuted fractures of the calcaneus constitute a significant orthopedic challenge. Calcaneal fracture management should primarily aim to achieve good clinical and biomechanical outcomes, pain reduction, and normal function following treatment. Research questionHow does Ilizarov treatment of calcaneal fractures affect gait parameters? MethodsThis retrospective study included 21patients (7 women, 14 men) who were treated for intra-articular calcaneal fractures with the Ilizarov method in the period 2021–2022. Nineteen healthy volunteers constituted the control group. Gait assessments were conducted with a BTS G-SENSOR device (BTS Bioengineering Corp., Quincy, MA, USA). The gait assessment evaluated the following parameters: assessment duration expressed in seconds (s), cadence expressed as the number of steps per minute (steps/min), gait velocity (m/s), stride length (m), stance phase (%), swing phase (%), double support phase (%), and single support phase (%).The study assessed pain intensity in the VAS scale, Böhler's angle and Gissane's angle. Results and SignificanceWe observed no significant differences between the experimental group and the healthy control group in terms of cadence, gait velocity, or stride length. Patients in experimental group showed significantly shortened stance and single support phases in the treated limb in comparison with those in the intact limb; the remaining gait parameters were similar in the treated and intact limb. We observed no significant differences between the treated limbs in the patient group and the nondominant limbs in the control group in terms of any gait parameters. In the follow-up, the average pain value on the VAS scale was 2.3. The median Böhler angle changed from 5.5° preoperatively to 28.5° postoperatively, p < 0.001. The median Gissane's angle was 119° before surgery and 143° after surgery, p < 0.001.The use of the Ilizarov method in the treatment of calcaneal fractures helps achieve sufficient normalization of most gait parameters, with their values similar to those observed in healthy volunteers. After treatment of calcaneal fractures using the Ilizarov method, radiological parameters improved. The biomechanical outcomes of calcaneal fracture treatment with the Ilizarov method are good.

Comparison of Spinal Cord Stimulation, Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation, and Association of Both in Patients With Refractory Chronic Back and/or Lower Limb Neuropathic Pain: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Cross-Over Trial (BOOST-DRG Study)

ObjectivesSpinal cord stimulation (SCS) and dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) have individually shown efficacy in relieving pain in patients with persistent spinal pain syndrome after spinal surgery (PSPS-T2). Combining SCS and DRGS simultaneously, along with Burst stimulation programming, may enhance the responder rate of patients with PSPS-T2. Material and MethodsThis study aimed to compare the pain relief (≥50%) responder rates in SCS, DRGS, and SCS+DGRS (DUAL) through a three-month randomized cross-over trial in patients with PSPS-T2. After the cross-over period, stimulation programming was switched to Burst. Secondary objectives included evaluating the clinical efficacy at three-, four-, six-, and 12-month follow-ups, assessing pain intensity, area of pain, area of paresthesia coverage, quality of life, functional disability, psychologic distress, medication intake, and the Multidimensional Clinical Response Index (MCRI). ResultsThe responder rate of pain relief was similar in SCS, DRGS, and DUAL (60%, p = 0.84) at the end of the cross-over period, increasing to 80% with the ability to switch between stimulation possibilities. Burst programming did not provide additional pain relief at the four-month follow-up (p = 0.99). Clinical outcomes significantly improved until 12-month follow-up compared with baseline. Considering a clinically significant increase of 1.05 of the MCRI, all patients were responders at three-, four-, and six- month follow-up, and 80% were responders at 12 months compared with baseline. ConclusionsThe full option to stimulate different neural structures, separately or simultaneously, led to improved responder rates, allowing patients to personalize treatment. A multidimensional assessment is essential to reveal the full potential benefits of neuromodulation in patients with chronic pain.

Rehabilitation of back pain with laser associated with negative or positive pressure massage in workers: A randomized controlled trial

Background and purposeWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are an array of conditions affecting the human locomotor system, such as muscles, tendons, nerves, bones, and joints. It is related to physiological, kinesiological and biomechanical changes which result in pain, paresthesia, inflammation, weakness, tiredness, heaviness in limbs, fatigue, reduced range of motion and/or compression of peripheral nerves. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of positive (massage gum) or negative pressure (vacuum therapy) combined with laser on the health of workers with back pain, investigating pain intensity, shoulder mobility, spinal flexibility, life quality, and well-being. MethodsTwenty-one workers (female and male) aged between 20 and 60 years and who had medical referral for pain complaint in low back, neck and shoulders due to WMSDs participated in this study and were randomized into 3 groups: (1) Positive Pressure plus Laser Group (PPL): positive pressure using a massage gun was applied after the laser; (2) Negative Pressure plus Laser Group (NPL): negative pressure by vacuum was applied together with the laser and; (3) Control group (CG): without positive and negative pressure treatments or laser therapy. All workers received an educational booklet with postural orientation and suggestions focused on stretching exercises. Anamnesis, visual analogue scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity, and functional tests to assess spine flexibility and shoulders mobility were performed. Quality of life and well-being also were evaluated. The regions of lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine were treated once a week, totaling seven sessions. ResultsThe main result was a reduced pain and an increased spinal flexibility, shoulders mobility, and quality of life in the PPL and NPL groups compared to the CG (p < 0.05). Furthermore, NPL showed better results compared to PPL (p < 0.05) for lumbar and cervical pain, as well as for right shoulder mobility. ConclusionTherefore, laser combined with negative pressure massage was more effective in reducing lumbar and cervical pain and increasing shoulder mobility compared to positive pressure massage in workers.

Effect of Radial Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Pain Intensity Level in Patient with Calcaneal Spur

Background: Heel pain is a common musculoskeletal issue that significantly impacts patient daily activities and, consequently, their quality of life. This clinical study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy in reducing pain intensity in patients with calcaneal spurs.Objective: To investigate the effects of radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy on pain intensity in patient with calcaneal spur.Methods: A total of 60 patients diagnosed with calcaneal spurs based on clinical examination and lateral radiography between September 2022 and June 2023 were included in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy) and Group B (traditional physical therapy). All participants followed an exercise program; however, those in Group A received six sessions of radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy (10 Hz, 2000 pulses, at 2.4 bar). The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to assess pain intensity both before and after treatment in all participants.Results: No significant differences were observed between Group A and Group B regarding gender, affected side, condition distribution, age, weight, height, or BMI (p &gt; 0.05). Both groups experienced significant reductions in VAS scores post-treatment (p &lt; 0.001); however, Group A demonstrated a greater improvement, with a percentage reduction in pain of -50.65%, compared to -28.17% in Group B. Additionally, post-treatment VAS scores were significantly lower in Group A than in Group B (p = 0.003), indicating that shockwave therapy yielded a more substantial reduction in painConclusions: Both radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy and traditional physical therapy programs significantly reduced pain intensity in patients with calcaneal spurs, with a favorable effect observed for radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy. These methods can be considered effective, safe, and conservative treatment options for managing calcaneal spurs.

Online Graded Motor Imagery Is Effective in Women Diagnosed with Pelvic Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Effective therapeutic strategies are crucial for managing Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder (GPPPD), a condition presenting challenges for both patients and health care providers. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of an online Graded Motor Imagery program in alleviating pain intensity and improving sexual function in women diagnosed with GPPPD. Eighty-seven women were randomly assigned to either an online Graded Motor Imagery group or a control group. The online Graded Motor Imagery protocol involved engaging participants in 2-week segments of left/right judgment exercises, mental simulation of movements, and gradual exposure therapy. After 6weeks, we assessed pain intensity and sexual function. The control group gained access to the program upon study completion. The online Graded Motor Imagery group demonstrated a significant reduction in pain intensity, coupled with improvements in sexual function. Notably, participants with enhanced movement imagery abilities experienced greater improvements, while those with negative beliefs and thoughts regarding vaginal penetration showed lower sexual function scores. An online Graded Motor Imagery program is effective in alleviating the pain burden faced by women dealing with GPPPD. Effectively addressing pelvic pain in patients remains a daunting challenge for physical therapists. Therefore, implementing efficient and easily accessible strategies is crucial. The incorporation of Graded Motor Imagery intervention proves to be an effective approach for improving both pain and sexual functioning in women with GPPPD.

PREVALENCE OF DE QUERVAIN’SS TENOSYNOVITIS IN CANVAS PAINTERS

Background: De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, also known as De Quervain’s syndrome or disease, is a common wrist condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. This condition involves inflammation and irritation of the tendons controlling thumb movement, specifically the extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) and abductor pollicis longus (APL). Pain is typically reproduced during resisted thumb movements, especially when these tendons glide within the fibrous tunnel under the radial styloid and extensor retinaculum. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis among canvas painters who frequently perform repetitive wrist and thumb movements. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to April 2023, involving 97 canvas painters aged 20 to 40 years who painted for more than 4 hours per day. Participants were recruited from various institutions, including NTU, FITIF, The University of Faisalabad, and Agriculture University. Informed consent was obtained, and participants completed the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire to assess pain intensity and functional limitations. The Finkelstein test was performed to confirm the diagnosis of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20 software. Results: Out of 97 participants, 49 (50.5%) tested positive for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis using the Finkelstein test, while 48 (49.5%) tested negative. The gender distribution showed that 38.1% of participants were male and 61.9% were female, with a mean age of 24 years (SD = 4.5). Pain levels, as per the PRWE, ranged from mild to severe, with 33% experiencing moderate pain and 17.5% reporting severe pain. Conclusion: The study concludes that De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is prevalent among canvas painters, affecting 50.5% of the population surveyed. The repetitive hand and wrist movements involved in canvas painting, such as gripping brushes and applying pressure, contribute significantly to the development of this condition. Proper education and preventive measures are essential to mitigate risks associated with repetitive strain injuries in this population.

A Review on the Use of Physiological Signals for Assessing Postoperative Pain

The assessment of pain intensity after surgery is important for guiding pain management. Due to the limitations of current pain evaluation tools, there is increasing interest in using objective methods to assess pain in clinical settings. This literature review aims to provide an overview of physiological methods for postoperative pain evaluation. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to perform a literature search on the Scopus database from 2002 to March 2024. Sixty-one studies were included in this review investigating parameters derived from six physiological signals, including Electrocardiogram (ECG), Photoplethysmogram (PPG), Skin Conductance (SC), Electroencephalogram (EEG), Electromyogram (EMG), and pupil size and reflexes. Parameters extracted from ECG, PPG, and SC signals were the most commonly studied. While there is evidence to support the use of physiological parameters as measures for postoperative pain evaluation, further research is needed to establish the reliability and generalizability of these parameters to develop an indicator that can be consistently applied across various clinical settings. For this purpose, this review describes current research findings and identifies limitations and directions for future work that should be considered in upcoming research on postoperative pain assessment.

Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation on Pain Management in Sickle Cell Disease Patients

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among patients with sickle cell disease, regardless of their age or the season. Since there has been no extensive research on the impact of vitamin D on pain in sickle cell disease, this study aimed to evaluate how vitamin D supplementation influences pain management in these patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on children (12.3±4.45 years old) with definitive diagnosis of sickle cell. The study was done in the Department of Oncology of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Yazd, Iran, over the years 2019-2021. Thirty patients (14 boys and 16 girls) with vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency entered the study and 50000 IU vitamin D was given weekly for 16 weeks. The measurement of vitamin 25(OH) D3 before and after intervention was done by ELISA method (Monobind kit, USA). Pain intensity assessment was also done. Other relevant data were extracted from the patients’ medical records. Results: In this study, amomg 30 patients, 46.6% of them had vitamin D deficiency. A significant reduction in pain intensity was observed in patients following the intervention (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, vitamin D was effective in reducing pain intensity in these patients. Therefore, vitamin D can be used in the pain management of these patients.

ID: 323364 Clinical Utility of Common Self-Report Pain Intensity Assessment Tools in Pediatric and Adolescent Populations

ID: 323364 Clinical Utility of Common Self-Report Pain Intensity Assessment Tools in Pediatric and Adolescent Populations

Hair cortisol sampling as a measure of physiological stress in youth with acute musculoskeletal pain

Stress physiology contributes to health outcomes. Hair cortisol concentration (HCC) is an objective measure of cumulative cortisol secretion associated with health, including pain. The aim of the current study was to describe associations between pre-injury stress physiology (as measured by HCC), acute pain characteristics and relevant demographic factors (i.e., BMI, age, sex, days since injury) in youth with an acute musculoskeletal (MSK) injury. Participants were 58 youth aged 11 to 17 with acute MSK pain. Participants completed self-report measures assessing pain intensity, pain catastrophizing, and pain interference. Hair was collected within 1 month after injury using hair cortisol collection procedures adapted from published research protocols. Correlations examining associations among HCC values and clinical/demographic factors revealed that higher HCC was associated with lower body mass index (BMI) and male sex. HCC was not associated with pain variables or age. Additional research is needed to clarify the relation between HCC and psychosocial variables to aid researchers in studying the role of pre-injury stress in acute MSK injury and pain recovery in youth.

From pain level to pain experience: redefining acute pain assessment to enhance understanding of chronic postsurgical pain

BackgroundChronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) significantly impairs quality of life and poses a substantial healthcare burden, affecting up to a quarter of patients undergoing surgery. Although acute pain is recognised as a predictor for CPSP development, the role of patient experience remains underexplored. This study examines the predictive value of patient experience alongside traditional risk factors for CPSP after orthopaedic surgery. MethodsAn exploratory analysis was conducted on 294 patients from a multicentre randomised clinical trial comparing continuous perineural analgesia and single-injection nerve block in ambulatory orthopaedic surgeries. Patient experience was assessed using the Evaluation du Vecu de l’Anesthésie Générale (EVAN-G) validated questionnaire. Factors associated with CPSP at 90 days after surgery were identified through univariate and multivariate analyses, incorporating patient-reported outcomes and classical variables. ResultsOut of 219 patients with complete data, 63 (29%) developed CPSP at day 90. Multivariate analysis revealed a poor pain experience, as assessed by the pain dimension of EVAN-G on postoperative day 2, as an independent predictor of CPSP (odds ratio 6.45, 95% confidence interval 1.65–25.26, P<0.01). Poor pain experience was associated with an augmented risk of CPSP. ConclusionsThis study underscores the role of patient-reported outcomes, specifically the pain experience dimension captured by the EVAN-G scale, in prediction of CPSP 90 days after surgery. It suggests a shift from conventional assessments of pain intensity to a comprehensive understanding of pain experience, advocating for tailored pain management approaches that could reduce chronic pain, thereby improving patient quality of life and functional recovery.

Use of alternative therapies in pain management in domestic animals: A narrative review of the literature

Objective: To explore the impact of alternative therapeutic approaches on pain management and animal welfare, highlighting the integration of complementary methods into conventional treatments. Animal welfare is directly related to quality of life, which includes psychological, physical, environmental and social factors. Given the many facets of pain and the individual responses of animals to it, it is difficult to assess this complex and subjective experience. To address pain, it is essential to observe physiological and behavioral signs. To do this, tools such as the University of Melbourne Pain Scale can be used to assess pain intensity. Traditional methods are being supplemented by new alternative therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine and aromatherapy. While acupuncture stimulates specific points to restore balance, Bach flower remedies offer a more comprehensive approach that focuses on emotions. With caution, aromatherapy can alleviate anxiety and stress. Although cannabidiol (CBD) has the potential to treat chronic diseases and relieve pain, further research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy. These alternative therapies offer valuable options for managing pain and improving animal welfare, encouraging continued research and personalized treatments.