Articles: back-pain.
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Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is a method that has been gaining popularity over the past few years among spinal surgeons. It has a role when dealing with pain of spinal origin, either mechanical or neuropathic, after conservative treatment has failed. In the present study, 122 patients with a minimal follow up of 1 year were examined at our institution after having undergone RF heat lesion of the medial branch for mechanical spinal pain (low back pain, thoracic pain or cervical pain). ⋯ In the case of the 22 patients who were followed for 18 months, all showed significant pain relief. Minor complications occurred in 27 patients (22%), who had transient discomfort and burning pain. We concluded that RF is a safe and partially effective procedure for mechanical back pain.
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To determine whether the presence of depressive symptoms is an independent risk factor for disabling back pain in community-dwelling older persons. ⋯ The presence of depressive symptoms is a strong, independent, and highly prevalent risk factor for the occurrence of disabling back pain in community-dwelling older persons.
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Back and neck pain is an established occupational disease for many professions. No previous studies have shown the association of back and neck pain with ENT surgery. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of neck and back pain in ENT consultants in the United Kingdom and which sub-specialties were most at risk. ⋯ Of those with pain 53 per cent attributed their symptoms directly to ENT surgery. Highest figures were received from otologists, related to microscope work and prolonged sitting. The importance of these findings has demonstrated the lack of awareness and adequate training to prevent long-term disability in ENT surgeons.
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · Nov 2003
[Polymethylmethacrylate-vertebroplasty. A new and effective method of pain treatment in vertebral compression].
Percutaneous polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) vertebroplasty is increasingly used in the treatment of back pain related to compression of the vertebral bodies. After the procedure immediate mobilization of the patient is possible. The purpose of the study was to examine the change in quality of life of patients with vertebral collapse achieved by vertebroplasty during a six-month period. ⋯ PMMA vertebroplasty is an efficacious and safe method of pain relief for patients with osteolytic metastases or osteoporotic compression with good long-term results.
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Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a heterogeneous disorder that falls in the spectrum of neuropathic pain disorders. It is maintained by abnormalities throughout the neuraxis (the peripheral, autonomic, and central nervous systems). The pathophysiology of CRPS is not fully known. ⋯ To the extent that peripheral somatosensory nerve blocks can diminish nociceptive input to the central nervous system, these techniques may help reduce the nociceptive sensitization of spinal neurons. Pain relief, however it is achieved and however temporary it is, is intended to facilitate participation in functional therapies to normalize use and to improve motion, strength, and dexterity. Psychologic therapies, such as biofeedback and cognitive-behavioral techniques targeting pain, stress, and mood disorders, are valuable adjunctive treatments for pain control and can facilitate functional improvement.