Decrease In Severity Of Pain Research Articles

High-Frequency 10-kHz Spinal Cord Stimulation Provides Long-term (24-Month) Improvements in Diabetes-Related Pain and Quality of Life for Patients with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy.

The SENZA-PDN study evaluated high-frequency 10-kHz spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). Over 24 months, 10-kHz SCS provided sustained pain relief and improved health-related quality of life. This report presents additional outcomes from the SENZA-PDN study, focusing on diabetes-related pain and quality of life outcomes. The SENZA-PDN study randomized 216 participants with refractory PDN to receive either conventional medical management (CMM) or 10-kHz SCS plus CMM (10-kHz SCS + CMM), allowing crossover after six months if pain relief was insufficient. Postimplantation assessments at 24 months were completed by 142 participants with a permanent 10-kHz SCS implant, comprising 84 initial and 58 crossover recipients. Measures included the Brief Pain Inventory for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (BPI-DPN), Diabetes-Related Quality of Life (DQOL), Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), and treatment satisfaction. Over 24 months, 10-kHz SCS treatment significantly reduced pain severity by 66.9% (P < .001; BPI-DPN) and pain interference with mood and daily activities by 65.8% (P < .001; BPI-DPN). Significant improvements were also observed in overall DQOL score (P < .001) and GAF score (P < .001), and 91.5% of participants reported satisfaction with treatment. High-frequency 10-kHz SCS significantly decreased pain severity and provided additional clinically meaningful improvements in DQOL and overall functioning for patients with PDN. The robust and sustained benefits over 24 months, coupled with high participant satisfaction, highlight that 10-kHz SCS is an efficacious and comprehensive therapy for patients with PDN.

Боль в спине. Результаты неинтервенционного исследования применения препарата Амбениум® парентерал в условиях реальной клинической практики

Aim: to estimate efficacy, tolerability, and safety of Ambenium® parenteral [phenylbutazone sodium 400 mg and lidocaine hydrochloride 4 mg] used for treatment of patients with low back pain. Methods. A total of 100 patients with low back pain (LBP), who received a single intramuscular injection of Ambenium® parenteral, were included in the study. The follow-up period was 3 days. The change in pain severity on VAS (mm) was selected as a primary outcome measure for efficacy. The pain syndrome severity was estimated before administration of the drug (visit 1) and 4, 6, 8 and 12 h after the drug administration, as well as during visits 2 (day 2) and 3 (day 4). The McGill Pain Questionnaire, muscle syndrome index (MSI), Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire pain estimates were used as the secondary diagnostic criteria. The percentage of patients with the positive response relative to baseline (the decrease in pain severity on VAS by more than 50%) was also determined. Results. The dynamics of the primary efficacy measure (pain severity on VAS) was as follows: 7.4 ± 0.92 cm (mean ± standard deviation) during visit 1, 5.6 ± 1.49 cm after 2 h, 4.6 ± 1.74 cm after 4 h, 3.0 ± 1.79 cm after 8 h; the VAS score was 2.3 ± 1.70 cm after 12 h (р&lt;0.001). The share of patients who responded to therapy (with the decrease in pain severity on VAS by more than 50% relative to baseline) was 84% [95% CI: 75.0 – 91.0] 24 h after the first administration, 94% during visit 3 [95% CI: 87.0 – 98.0], р&lt;0.001. The secondary efficacy criteria (muscle syndrome index and McGill Pain Questionnaire score) showed significant positive dynamics (р&lt;0.001). No systemic adverse events were reported. Conclusion. The study showed that a single intramuscular injection of Ambenium® parenteral was an efficient, well-tolerated and safe treatment option for low back pain. Administration of a single drug dose makes it possible to ensure a significant clinical effect reflected in the pain severity decrease and restoration of the patient’s motor activity.

Assessment of pain relief after four botulinum toxin A injection cycles in patients with post-stroke lower limb spasticity: A prospective, observational study

IntroductionSpasticity is common after a stroke and is an independent risk factor for developing pain. BotulinumtoxinA injection is the treatment of choice for focal spasticity. We examined the effect of intramuscular botulinumtoxinA on pain relief in patients in routine clinical practice who were experiencing pain as a primary complaint associated with post-stroke lower limb spasticity. MethodsProspective, multicentre, post-marketing observational study. The study period was 16 months. The primary effectiveness variable was the mean change from baseline on the pain 0–10 Numerical Rating Scale after four botulinumtoxinA injection cycles. Secondary endpoints included changes from baseline on the pain 0–100 Visual Analogue Scale, Goal Attainment Scale, modified Ashworth Scale, 10-Meter Walk Test, Penn Spasm Frequency Scale, and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey. ResultsOf 186 enrolled patients, 180 (96.8%) received botulinumtoxinA at least once. The mean (standard deviation) pain 0–10 Numerical Rating Scale score decreased significantly (p<0.0001) from 4.9 (2.2) at baseline to 2.5 (2.1) at study end, representing a 50% decrease in pain severity. Relief of pain due to spasticity was supported by improvement from baseline in all secondary variables except the 10-Meter Walk Test. Two adverse events (erysipelas and phlebitis) in one patient were considered likely to be related to botulinumtoxinA injection. ConclusionBotulinumtoxinA appears to provide pain relief as an additional benefit of local treatment in patients with post-stroke lower limb spasticity for whom pain relief is a primary therapeutic goal (a Lay Abstract has been provided as Appendix A).

Nocebo expectations rather than placebo expectations affect topical pain relief: A randomized clinical trial

Patients' expectations and beliefs regarding the potential benefits and harms of medical interventions may induce placebo and nocebo effects, and affect the response to pain therapies. In a randomized clinical trial, we examined the effect of placebo and nocebo expectations on pain relief and adverse events (AEs) in association with a topical treatment among 65 cancer survivors experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain. Participants received either a 1% camphor-based topical pain patch or a placebo treatment for 14 days. We measured pain severity with the worst pain item of the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) at baseline and 14 days and treatment expectations at baseline with validated expectation questionnaires. We found that high vs. low nocebo expectations decreased pain severity improvements by 2.5 points (95% confidence interval [CI] −3.8 to −1.2; p<0.001) on a 0–10 numeric rating scale of the BPI and pain response rate by 42.7% (95% CI 0.2–0.6; p<0.001) at day 14, irrespective of placebo expectation status or treatment arms. Patients with high vs. low nocebo expectations in the true arm reported 22.4% more unwanted AEs. High nocebo expectations were associated with increased AEs by 39.5% (odds ratio: 12.0, 95% CI 1.2, 145.5; p=0.029) and decreased pain response in the true arm vs. placebo. Our study demonstrated that nocebo expectations, rather than placebo expectations, elevate the risk of AEs and compromise the effect of topical pain interventions. The findings raise the possibility that nocebo expectations may worsen somatic symptoms through heightening central pain amplification and should be further investigated.

The quality of life after Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Cervical discopathy is commonly associated with pain in the cervical spine which may affect patients’ quality of life. If conservative treatment fails to relieve the pain for at least 6 months and/or if neurological deficit progresses, the surgical treatment is taken under consideration. The aim of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and disability of patients after single- and multi-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with standalone polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages. The study evaluated how ACDF influenced particular aspects of patients’ quality of life in the context of radiological outcome. The study included 30 consecutive patients with single- or multi-level cervical disc herniation. Patients underwent clinical and radiological evaluation before and one year after the ACDF procedure. For each patient, we assessed the severity of cervical pain with a numerical rating scale (NRS) and filled the neck disability index questionnaire (NDI). The health-related quality of life was assessed with the Polish version of 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). A significant decrease in all NDI aspects indicates a significant improvement after surgery. The quality of life in all aspects assessed with SF-36 scale was also improved. A moderate decrease in cervical spine mobility coexisted with a good outcome of the neurosurgical procedure. In the opinion of patients, the most important aspect after the cervical spine surgery is the reduction of pain severity. ACDF surgery is an effective method to reduce the severity of pain in patients with degenerative disc disease. ACDF improves the quality of patient’s life. According to the study results the physical role improved most significantly; the least improvement was noted in role-emotional aspect. Up to 83% of patients achieved a reduction of the NDI index by 5 or more points after surgical treatment which proves the high effectiveness of the surgical treatment. No statistically significant difference was noted between patients with single and multi – level discopathy. Up to 97% of patients who underwent ACDF reported a significant decrease in pain severity measured with NRS.

Testing Biological and Psychological Pathways of Emotion Regulation as a Primary Mechanism of Action in Yoga Interventions for Chronic Low Back Pain: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Interventions that promote adaptive emotion regulation (ER) skills reduce pain in patients with chronic pain; however, whether the effects of yoga practice on chronic low back pain (CLBP) are due to improvements in ER remains to be examined. This study will test whether the effects of yoga on CLBP (improved pain severity and interference) are mediated by improved ER, the extent to which effects are related to specific aspects of ER, and the role of pain sensitization as a mediator or moderator of effects. In this study, pain sensitization will be assessed by quantitative sensory testing and gene expression profiles to examine whether pain sensitization moderates yoga's effects on pain or whether yoga and ER abilities reduce pain sensitization, leading to decreased pain severity and interference. For this 2-arm parallel group blinded randomized controlled trial, we will enroll 204 adults with CLBP who will be randomized to receive the yoga (n=102) or a control stretching and strengthening (n=102) intervention, which are delivered via web-based synchronous biweekly 75-minute sessions over 12 weeks. Participants are encouraged to practice postures or exercises for 25 minutes on other days using accessible prerecorded practice videos that are sent to participants digitally. Participants will be assessed at 5 time points: baseline, midintervention (6 weeks), postintervention (12 weeks), and 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Assessments of ER, pain severity and interference, pain sensitivity including somatosensory and gene expression profiles, and physical strength and flexibility will be conducted at each visit. The fidelity of the interventions is assessed using a manualized checklist to evaluate recorded group sessions to ensure consistent instructor delivery. The primary outcome will be the mean change in pain severity as measured by the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form at 12 weeks. The primary mechanism of action is ER measured by change in the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale total score. Secondary outcomes include pain sensitivity, physical strength and flexibility, pain interference, and quality of life. A mediation path analysis and series of moderated mediation path analyses will be conducted to test the study hypotheses. As of January 2024, we have enrolled 138 participants. We expect the study to be completed by May 2025. The study will provide important data for evaluating whether improvements in ER are responsible for reduced pain perception and pain sensitivity as well as increased quality of life in the context of chronic pain. The study findings have important implications for determining the mechanism of action for yoga and possibly other mind-body interventions as nonpharmacological therapies for pain management. The results of the study will inform the content, delivery, and measures for intervention trials involving yoga as a modality for relieving pain and improving function. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04678297; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04678297. DERR1-10.2196/56016.

Special aspects of total hip arthroplasty in patients with proximal femur pseudarthrosis

IntroductionThe rate of proximal femur fractures (PFF) in the structure of musculoskeletal system injuries among all fractures of long bones ranges from 3.9 to 18%. According to Russian Ministry of Health 2020 data, the incidence of femoral fractures in Russia was up to 61 cases per 100,000 population (90,000 per year); and femoral neck fractures incidence was 4 times higher among people over 75 years of age. The choice of surgical technique and the fixator used depend on many factors, such as fracture location and its nature, the age of the patient, comorbidities, and the quality of bone tissue. Internal osteosynthesis, is the current treatment method of choice for extra-articular proximal femur fracture, but every treatment method has its limitations. a significant number of complications caused by technical errors, vicious union or nonunion with the subsequent development of false joints, the development of femoral head aseptic necrosis, which leads to coxarthrosis and persistent pain syndrome. To solve the above-described problems, it is necessary to use a conversion surgery - total hip replacement. Objectiveslong-term analysis of the results of total hip replacement in patients with proximal femur pseudarthrosis. MethodsThe study was based on clinical and laboratory data analysis and on the results of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 45 patients aged 56–84 years (mean age 68.3), including 32 (71.1%) women and 13 (26.1%) men. 12 patients initially received conservative treatment, and 33 patients received initial surgical treatment using various metal osteosynthesis procedures. The time from osteosynthesis or from the moment of injury to admission to the hospital for hip arthroplasty ranged from 12 to 30 months. All patients, before conversion arthroplasty and after discharge, were repeatedly invited to the clinical diagnostic department for a clinical examination and for assessment using rating scales. 3, 6 and 12 months after the surgery, pain syndrome and patient quality of life were assessed using the following questionnaire scales: Harris Hip Score, MOS SF-36, VAS. The maximum follow-up period ranged from 12 to 60 months. ResultsBased on the results obtained, patients of all 4 groups after conversion arthroplasty noted a significant quality of life improvement, a decrease in pain severity and functional results improvement. This was probably due to the presence of a severe limitation of range of movements in the joint, intense pain, absence of support ability of the extremity, as well as low operative efficacy expectations.In 1 (2%) patient, acute PJI was diagnosed in the early postoperative period, followed by sepsis and death.In 4 patients (9%) the result was considered unsatisfactory. At 1 year of follow-up after surgery, they complained of pain and claudication in the operated joint.3 (6%) patients underwent reduction of dislocation. ConclusionsStrict adherence to the recommended treatment algorithm for patients with proximal femur pseudarthrosis made it possible to achieve good treatment results in 90% of surgically treated patients. An important step in the treatment of this patients is a careful preoperative planning with thorough assessment of bone tissue quality and muscles condition in the proximal femur area, allowing to choose the optimal endoprosthesis components.

A novel theta-controlled vibrotactile brain–computer interface to treat chronic pain: a pilot study

Limitations in chronic pain therapies necessitate novel interventions that are effective, accessible, and safe. Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) provide a promising modality for targeting neuropathology underlying chronic pain by converting recorded neural activity into perceivable outputs. Recent evidence suggests that increased frontal theta power (4–7 Hz) reflects pain relief from chronic and acute pain. Further studies have suggested that vibrotactile stimulation decreases pain intensity in experimental and clinical models. This longitudinal, non-randomized, open-label pilot study's objective was to reinforce frontal theta activity in six patients with chronic upper extremity pain using a novel vibrotactile neurofeedback BCI system. Patients increased their BCI performance, reflecting thought-driven control of neurofeedback, and showed a significant decrease in pain severity (1.29 ± 0.25 MAD, p = 0.03, q = 0.05) and pain interference (1.79 ± 1.10 MAD p = 0.03, q = 0.05) scores without any adverse events. Pain relief significantly correlated with frontal theta modulation. These findings highlight the potential of BCI-mediated cortico-sensory coupling of frontal theta with vibrotactile stimulation for alleviating chronic pain.

Alleviating effect of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and its major components on postherpetic pain: a randomized blinded controlled trial

BackgroundPostherpetic neuralgia (PHN) causes severe pain which can lead to decreased quality-of-life. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of inhalation of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil and its major components (linalool and linalyl acetate) on the pain in patients with PHN.MethodsThis study was performed at an outpatient clinic. Sixty-four patients with postherpetic neuralgia were randomly allocated to a control group (almond oil) or one of three experimental groups (lavender oil, linalool, or linalyl acetate diluted in almond oil at concentration of 1% v/v), and the participants inhaled the aroma by natural breathing. Quality, severity, and intensity of pain were measured before and after the intervention.ResultsSix patients discontinued the intervention for personal reasons; hence, data from 58 patients were analyzed (control group, n = 14; 1% lavender oil group, n = 15; 1% linalool, n = 15; 1% linalyl acetate, n = 14). Reduction in sensory pain was greater in the 1% lavender oil group, 1% linalool group, and 1% linalyl acetate group than in the control group (all P < 0.001). Reduction in affective pain was greater in the 1% lavender group (P < 0.001) and the 1% linalool group (P = 0.007) than in the control group. Decreases in pain severity and intensity were significantly greater in all three intervention groups than in the control group.ConclusionsInhalation of lavender oil and its major volatile components effectively reduced the quality, severity, and intensity of postherpetic pain, suggesting that lavender oil, linalool, and linalyl acetate may each be an effective intervention for reducing pain in patients with postherpetic neuralgia.Trial registrationThis study was retrospectively registered on the Clinical Research Information Service. Registration number: KCT0007772, first registration 06/10/2022.

Результаты лечения хронической боли в области плечевого пояса с применением препаратов на основе полинуклеотидов и коллагена

Aim: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intra- and peri-articular administration of injectable gel implant containing polynucleotides and collagen implants in patients with adhesive capsulitis / impingement syndrome / cervical spondylosis (uncovertebral arthrosis, spondylosis) with clinical reflex and reflex compression signs and orthopedic conditions. Patients and Methods: this prospective multicenter longitudinal 6-month study included 100 men and women (mean age 45 years). The patients were divided into 4 groups (25 patients in each group) based on the diagnosis. Treatment strategy (intra- and peri-articular administration of injectable gel implant containing polynucleotides and collagen implants) was determined by diagnosis and joint inflammation. Before and after treatment, the functional state of the shoulder and pain severity were assessed using questionnaires and laboratory and instrumental tests. Efficacy was assessed by pain relief, improvement in the functional activity of the shoulder joint, and changes in the range of movements in the shoulder joint and cervical spine. Treatment safety was assessed by the adverse effects. Results: after treatment, most patients reported an increase in the range of movements in the cervical spine and shoulder joint, a decrease in pain severity in the cervical spine and shoulder joint, and improvement in the functionality of the shoulder joint. After treatment, a decrease in the CRP levels and ESR was observed. No severe adverse effects were detected. Conclusion: intra- and peri-articular administration of gel implant containing poly-nucleotides and collagen implants for upper shoulder girdle disorders is effective and safe. KEYWORDS: upper shoulder girdle, cervical spine, shoulder joint, chronic pain, polynucleotides, collagen, collagen implant, intraarticular injection, periarticular injection. FOR CITATION: Shcherbakov G.I., Kovtun S.N., Potkina T.N. Outcomes of treatment for chronic shoulder pain using drugs containing polynucleotides and collagen. Russian Medical Inquiry. 2024;8(2):102–109 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2587-6821-2024-8-2-8.

Pioneering Non-Invasive Neuromodulatory Techniques for Amelioration of Radiculopathic Pain: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials

Radiculopathy refers to spinal nerve root issues causing pain, numbness, weakness, or reflex problems along specific nerve pathways. Numerous research endeavors have delved into the potential of non-invasive neuromodulation (NINM) for alleviating neuropathic pain stemming from diverse causes; however, its efficacy specifically in addressing radiculopathic pain remains under-explored. This systematic review offers an exhaustive synthesis of existing literature concerning the application of NINM in managing radiculopathy-induced pain. A meticulous search was conducted across four databases namely Scopus, PubMed, PEDro and The Cochrane Library up to September 2023 in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. which yielded six pertinent studies out of 75,182 studies that met the predefined inclusion criteria and underwent rigorous evaluation. Employing assessment tools such as PEDro, GRADE, and Level of Evidence, the quality and findings of these studies were critically appraised. Out of 75182 studies that were initially found, six studies (PEDro score 3-9, GRADE scores very low-high and 1B level of evidence) were found to be eligible. Three out of six studies have low bias across all domains, while one study has concerns about outcome measurement. Another study lacks information about the randomization process, and one indicates high bias in randomization and some concerns about missing outcome data bias. Although some variations existed among the research outcomes, a predominant trend highlighted a notable decrease in pain severity on Visual Analog Scale (VAS)/numeric pain rating scale with the adoption of diverse NINM methodologies. As per the inferences drawn from the review, two out of six studies exhibited highest quality followed by other studies demonstrating moderate to low quality as a whole. In summation, integrating these NINM approaches alongside conventional therapeutic strategies appears promising for enhancing the efficacy and sustainability of radiculopathic pain management.

Specialty Palliative Care and Symptom Severity and Control in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience substantial symptom burden. Specialty palliative care (SPC) is recommended but often not involved or involved late. To determine whether patient-reported symptom severity was associated with subsequent SPC involvement and whether SPC was associated with symptom improvement in AYAs with cancer. This cohort study comprised AYAs (aged 15-29 years) with primary cancer diagnosed between January 1, 2010, and June 30, 2018, in Ontario, Canada. Data, including self-reported Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) scores, were obtained from health care databases. Specialty palliative care was identified through billing codes and validated algorithms. Final data analysis was performed on April 4, 2023. Associations of ESAS scores with subsequent SPC involvement were determined. A difference-in-differences approach was used for patients who died within 5 years of their cancer diagnosis. Case patients (SPC predeath, index date equals first SPC service) were matched 1:1 to control patients (no SPC at equivalent time before death). The study examined whether the difference between 90-day postindex and preindex mean ESAS scores was itself different between case and control patients. This study included 5435 AYAs with cancer, with a median follow-up of 5.1 (IQR, 2.5-7.9) years for analyses of general palliative care. Their median age at cancer diagnosis was 25 (IQR, 22-27) years, and more than half were male (2809 [51.7%]). For all symptoms, moderate and severe ESAS scores were associated with an increased likelihood of SPC involvement compared with mild scores. The greatest magnitude of association was seen for pain scores (hazard ratio for severe vs mild, 7.7 [95% CI, 5.8-10.2]; P < .001). A total of 721 AYAs (13.3%) died within 5 years of diagnosis, and 612 of these patients (84.9%) had received SPC before death. Among 202 case-control pairs, SPC involvement was associated with improved pain trajectories (mean scores improved from 3.41 to 3.07 in case patients and worsened from 1.86 to 2.16 in control patients; P = .003). Other symptom trajectories were not affected. In this cohort study of AYAs with cancer, those reporting moderate or severe symptoms through a screening program were more likely to subsequently receive SPC. These findings suggest that SPC was associated with a subsequent decrease in pain severity but did not affect other symptoms. New interventions targeting other symptoms during treatment and particularly at the end of life are needed.

Patients’ experience and utilization patterns of diclofenac gel in Germany: a real-world study with a prospective longitudinal survey and a retrospective analysis of pharmacy data

Objective Describe and characterize treatment patterns, satisfaction, improvement in pain and functional impairment (health-related quality of life [HRQoL]) in users of over the counter (OTC) Voltaren gel diclofenac (VGD) 2.32% and 1.16% in a real-world setting. Methods This observational real-world German study had prospective and retrospective components. The prospective data were collected from electronic surveys completed by adults who purchased VGD to treat their musculoskeletal pain at baseline and 4 and 12 weeks after baseline. Retrospective data were from a 12-month (March 2019 to February 2020) abstraction from dispensing software platforms used in select German pharmacies. Results Surveys from 467 participants (mean age 60.8 years) were analyzed. Average pain severity at baseline was 6.0 on an 11-point Numeric Rating Scale (0 = no pain, 10 = worst possible pain), improving by 0.8 and 1.2 points at Weeks 4 and 12, respectively. Performance of functional activities (daily/physical/social activities and errands/chores) improved and the proportion of participants with at least moderate interference decreased at both follow-up timepoints. Retrospective analyses indicated that majority of patients receiving VGD (n = 95,085) were ≥65 years old (67.9%), had one dispensed tube (70.8%) and did not switch to another topical treatment (including other NSAIDs) (77.3%), and were co-prescribed at least one cardiovascular medication (74.3%). Conclusions This study provides the first real-world insights into OTC VGD use in Germany. The participants using VGD reported a decrease in pain severity and an improvement of HRQoL while under treatment, as well as resulting satisfaction with treatment. Patients infrequently switched to alternate topical therapies/NSAIDs.

The effect of transverse friction massage on pain and quality of life in women with chronic pelvic pain: a quasi-experimental study

Background/Aims Chronic pelvic pain is defined as pain located to the pelvis or lower abdominal region, lasting for at least 6 months, and not associated with menstruation, coitus or pregnancy. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of transverse friction massage on pain and quality of life in women with chronic pelvic pain. Methods A total of 20 women participated in this study. Eight sessions of transverse friction massage were performed twice a week for 4 weeks, with each session lasting 30 minutes. Pelvic floor muscles (in terms of tenderness, trigger point, spasm and scar presence) were evaluated by digital palpation by an expert physiotherapist. The outcome measures used were the visual analogue scale, the 36-item Short Form-36 Survey and the Beck Depression Inventory. Participants were evaluated before treatment, at the end of the treatment, and 4 weeks after the end of the treatment. Results Participants' mean age was 49.7 ± 0.31 years. There was a decrease in pain intensity and an increase in quality of life scores (P&lt;0.001), but no statistically significant improvement in depression status at the end of the treatment (P&gt;0.001). Four weeks after the end of the treatment, significant decreases in pain severity, quality of life and depression were observed (P&lt;0.001). Conclusions Transverse friction massage is a feasible treatment option that can safely be used by physiotherapists to treat patients with chronic pelvic pain. It is inexpensive and can help to reduce pain and increase patients' quality of life. Randomised controlled trials are recommended to further confirm the findings from this study.

Symptom severity, specialty palliative care, and subsequent symptom control among adolescents and young adults with cancer: A population-based study.

e24127 Background: Adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer can suffer from substantial symptom burdens. Specialty palliative care (SPC) is recommended but often uninvolved or involved late. In a population-based AYA cohort, we determined: 1) whether symptom severity measured by routine patient report was associated with subsequent SPC involvement; and 2) whether SPC involvement was associated with subsequent symptom improvement. Methods: All Ontario, Canada AYA diagnosed with cancer aged 15-29 between 2010-2018 were identified and linked to healthcare databases, including one capturing self-reported Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) scores at cancer-related visits. SPC was identified through validated algorithms using PC fee codes billed by SPC physicians. ESAS scores were categorized as not measured, mild (0-3), moderate (4-6), or severe (7-9), and could vary over time. For each symptom, the association of ESAS score with subsequent SPC involvement was determined, adjusting for patient and disease characteristics. For objective #2, only AYA who died within 5 years of cancer diagnosis were included and a “difference-in-difference” approach was used. Cases (SPC involvement before death, index date was time of first SPC service) were matched 1:1 to controls (no SPC involvement at equivalent index date, defined by time prior to death) by sex and cancer type. By symptom type, linear regression determined whether the difference between the 90-day post-index and 90-day pre-index mean ESAS scores was itself different between cases and controls through examining interaction terms. Results: 5,435 AYA met inclusion criteria. 5-year cumulative incidence of SPC involvement was 19% [95th confidence interval (95CI) 18-20%]. For all symptoms, moderate and severe scores were associated with increasing likelihood of SPC involvement compared to mild scores; not being ESAS screened was associated with decreased likelihood. The greatest magnitude of association was seen for pain scores [adjusted hazard ratio of SPC involvement for severe vs. mild 7.7, 95CI 5.8-10.2, p &lt; 0.001]. 721 (13.3%) AYA died within 5 years of diagnosis; 612 (84.9%) had at least one SPC visit prior to death. 202 case-control pairs were identified. SPC involvement was associated with improved pain score trajectories (mean pain scores improved from 3.4 to 3.1 in cases vs. worsened from 1.9 to 2.1 in controls; p = 0.003), but did not impact trajectories of other symptoms. Conclusions: AYA reporting moderate or severe symptoms through a provincial screening program were more likely to subsequently receive SPC; systematic screening may increase access. SPC was associated with a subsequent decrease in pain severity, but did not affect other symptoms. New interventions targeting these other symptoms during cancer treatment and particularly at the end-of-life are urgently needed.

Efficacy of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea: a meta-analysis.

Dysmenorrhea is pelvic pain associated with menstruation and is one of the most common pain conditions among reproductive-age women. It is commonly treated with medications, complementary and alternative medicine, and self-management techniques. However, there is increased focus on psychological interventions which modify thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behavioral responses to dysmenorrhea. This review examined the efficacy of psychological interventions on dysmenorrhea pain severity and interference. We conducted a systematic search of the literature using PsycINFO, PubMed, CINHAL, and Embase. A total of 22 studies were included; 21 examined within-group improvement (ie, within-group analysis) and 14 examined between-group improvement (ie, between-group analysis). Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted on pain severity and interference, with average effect sizes calculated using Hedges's g. Within-group analyses showed decreased pain severity and interference at post-treatment (g = 0.986 and 0.949, respectively) and first follow-up (g = 1.239 and 0.842, respectively). Between-group analyses showed decreased pain severity at post-treatment (g = 0.909) and decreased pain severity and interference at first follow-up (g = 0.964 and 0.884, respectively) compared to control groups. This review supports the efficacy of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea, but conclusions are tempered by suboptimal methodological quality of the included studies and high heterogeneity across studies. Additional, rigorous research is needed to determine the clinical utility of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea.

Graded motor imagery in orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation: A systematic review of clinical studies

Background/Aim: Graded motor imagery is an increasingly popular motion representation technique. However, treatment protocols for graded motor imagery vary depending on various diseases. This study aims to summarize the cases in which graded motor imagery therapy is used, study protocols, and outcome measures in studies. Methods: The literature search was done with Web of Science, Pubmed, Scopus, and PEDro databases. The last search was carried out on September 13, 2022. A series-specific bias risk assessment tool was used with randomized, non-randomized, and case reports. All clinical studies that performed graded motor imagery, available in full text, describing their methods and findings, were included. The gender of the participants was not significant. The intervention was graded motor imagery. Outcome measures were mainly pain severity, other pain-related measures (e.g., pressure pain threshold, pain catastrophe), range of motion, strength, reaction time, kinesiophobia, neurophysiological measures, depression, function, or quality of life measures. Results: Complex regional pain syndrome, distal radius fracture, phantom limb pain, stroke, cancer, pathological pain (phantom pain after amputation, pain after brachial plexus avulsion), elbow stiffness, frozen shoulder, chronic shoulder pain, and osteoarthritis conditions were included. The intervention duration in the studies varies from 2 to 8 weeks. A common outcome measure could not be determined among studies. The pain was assessed in 15 studies, although different rating scales were used. Graded motor imagery resulted in a reduction in pain in 14 of the 15 studies. Conclusions: Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, a general conclusion regarding the effect of the disease-specific intervention was not possible. Based on pain outcome, graded motor imagery effectively decreased pain severity in various painful conditions.

Metal-Free Cortico-Pedicular Device for Supplemental Fixation in Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Pedicle screw fixation is a commonly utilized adjunct for lumbar interbody fusion, yet risks include screw malposition, pullout, loosening, neurovascular injury, and stress transfers leading to adjacent segment degeneration. This report describes the preclinical and initial clinical results of a minimally invasive, metal-free cortico-pedicular fixation device used for supplemental posterior fixation in lumbar interbody fusion. Safety of arcuate tunnel creation was evaluated in cadaveric lumbar (L1-S1) specimens. A finite element analysis study evaluated clinical stability of the device to pedicular screw-rod fixation at L4-L5. Preliminary clinical results were assessed by analysis of Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database complications, and 6-month outcomes in 13 patients treated with the device. Among 35 curved drill holes in 5 lumbar specimens, no breaches of the anterior cortex were identified. The mean minimum distance from the anterior surface of the hole to the spinal canal ranged from 5.1mm at L1-L2 to 9.8mm at L5-S1. In the finite element analysis study, the polyetheretherketone strap provided comparable clinical stability and reduced anterior stress shielding compared to the conventional screw-rod construct. The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database identified 1 device fracture with no clinical sequelae among 227 procedures. Initial clinical experience showed a 53% decrease in pain severity (P= 0.009), a 50% decrease in Oswestry Disability Index (P < 0.001), and no device-related complications. Cortico-pedicular fixation is a safe and reproducible procedure that may address limitations of pedicle screw fixation. Longer term clinical data in large clinical studies are recommended to confirm these promising early results.

Efficacy of botulinum toxin type A injection for Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers in patients with systemic sclerosis.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune, connective tissue disorder of unknown etiology which causes vasculopathy and fibrosis. Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a common complication of SSc, which leads to ischemia and gangrenes. Treatment of RP is a clinical problem and often remains insufficient.This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of local injections of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in improving the symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) secondary to scleroderma. This parallel single-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial enrolled 29 patients with scleroderma. Participants received BTX-A in the first, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th dorsal web spaces and the base of the thumb and small finger of the non-dominant hand and 2.5 ml of sterile normal saline in the opposite hand. Pre-injection measurements and post-injection follow-up evaluations at months 1 and 4 were performed. We compared the outcomes using the paired Student's t-test. The change in pain severity between pre-injection and month 1 follow-up was significantly larger in the BTX-A group (p-value = 0.04). Between pre-injection and month 1 and month 4, the changes in the Raynaud's condition score (RCS) (p-value = 0.02, 0.004, respectively) and the number of Raynaud's attacks (p-value = 0.006, 0.001, respectively) were significantly greater in the BTX-A group. No significant difference was found in terms of paresthesia, skin thickening, upper extremity function, ulcer diameter, number of ulcers, or Raynaud's attack duration between the two groups (p-value > 0.05). In time, the decrease in pain severity, paresthesia, RCS, number of ulcers, and ulcer diameter, and the increase in upper extremity function were significantly greater in the BTX-A group as compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). Our study showed that local injection of BTX-A is safe and has beneficial therapeutic effects on RP and RP-related digital ulcers in SSc patients.

An Exploration of the Implications of Sequencing Order on Group Pain Interventions in Veterans

Background: Efforts to increase acceptance and reduce avoidance behaviors in patients who suffer from chronic pain are likely to have additional beneficial effects on pain management. The primary aim of the current study was to evaluate whether a sequential approach to treatment, where acceptance-based coping strategies are taught prior to problem-focused coping strategies using manualized group therapies, improves pain-related outcomes. Methods: The current investigation is a single-group, longitudinal ex post facto study. A sample of 168 Veterans participated in the current study at a midwestern VA medical center. All participants were administered a standard pre- and post-intervention assessment battery. The primary outcome analysis was a 4 × 2 repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance. Results: The current study did not find a significant interaction effect for intervention x time but did find a significant main effect for time. All treatment conditions were associated with decreases in pain severity, pain interference, illness-focused coping strategies, catastrophizing behaviors, and global distress. Participation in both of the combined groups did not produce significantly different pain-related outcomes compared to participation in one group. Conclusion: These findings reinforce common factors theory in psychotherapy and provide insight into treatment dosage for patients who suffer from chronic pain. The current findings underline the importance of researching pain management, as it is a fundamental aspect of clinical practice, training, and research in rheumatology.