All articles tagged with #chronic back pain
Kim Kardashian credits stem cell treatments received in Mexico with curing her torn shoulder and chronic back pain, highlighting the benefits of regenerative medicine after trying various options in the US failed to provide relief.
A study published in The Lancet Rheumatology finds that cognitive functional therapy (CFT), a personalized approach focusing on understanding pain and overcoming fear of movement, provides long-lasting relief for chronic lower back pain, with participants experiencing fewer symptoms after just eight sessions over six months. The therapy emphasizes mindset shifts and self-management skills, working alongside other treatments to improve patient outcomes.
Chronic back pain is prevalent among adults, especially older individuals, and is often caused by age-related degenerative changes. Effective treatments for back pain, including exercise, physical therapy, talk therapy, and medication, can help alleviate discomfort. Movement, mind-body practices, and physical therapy can aid in reducing pain and increasing confidence in movement. Talk therapy and stress management can help change reactions to pain. While complementary treatments like massage and acupuncture may provide short-term relief, they are not considered first-line treatments. Over-the-counter medications and prescription options should be used cautiously, and individuals should seek medical attention if back pain persists or is accompanied by certain symptoms.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that discussing pain attributions and helping patients understand that pain is often "in the brain" can lead to a reduction in chronic back pain. The study examined the effectiveness of pain reprocessing therapy (PRT), which teaches individuals to perceive pain signals as less threatening. After receiving PRT, two-thirds of participants reported being pain-free or nearly pain-free, compared to only 20% of placebo controls. The study highlights the importance of addressing the brain's role in chronic pain and encourages healthcare providers to discuss the reasons behind patients' pain, including causes outside of biomedical factors.