Can Marijuana Be Moved To The Less Restricted List For Chronic Pain Patients

Today's post from webmd.com (see link below) takes the discussion about medical marijuana a little further and looks at the dilemmas doctors face when confronted by patients' valid questions regarding their pain treatment and the laws that cloud the picture and make them uncertain as to whether they're doing the right thing. It's a call for considerably more research to be done at official drug-enforcement levels and asks for a further loosening of restrictions to enable an unbiased and science-based evaluation of the benefits of marijuana for various conditions. It's a valid point because we already allow several drugs which have the potential to be far more addictive (oxycodon, morphine and many others) to help patients with chronic pain but it seems that marijuana has so many pre-judged labels attached that law enforcers just can't see beyond the decades-old criminality issues. Worth a read.

What DEA Pot Rule Change May Mean for Research WebMD News from HealthDay
By Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter TUESDAY, May 10, 2016
 
Agency could move marijuana to a less strictly regulated class of drugs

 (HealthDay News) -- Most doctors approach medical marijuana with a great deal of uncertainty, because drug laws have hindered researchers' ability to figure out what pot can and can't do for sick patients.

That could soon change.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is weighing whether to loosen its classification of marijuana, which would remove many restrictions on its use in medical research.

If that occurs, doctors could start getting answers to the questions they regularly receive from patients regarding marijuana's clinical benefits.

"I am asked as a practicing doctor even in a rural area about medical marijuana use, and I want to make sure I can give patients advice that's evidence-based," said Dr. Robert Wergin, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians. "We need those kinds of studies to help us give informed advice to our patients who ask about it now," he explained.

The DEA has said it will decide this summer whether marijuana should be lowered from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule II drug, according to an April memo from the agency to Congress.

Schedule I drugs are considered drugs "with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse," the DEA says on its website. Heroin, LSD and ecstasy stand alongside marijuana on the DEA's Schedule I list.

On the other hand, Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, but "there is the recognition that they have some medical value as well," said Dr. J. Michael Bostwick, a professor of psychiatry at the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minn.

"This could be an important softening of regulations that make it difficult to do marijuana or cannabis research in this country," Bostwick said.

Morphine, methamphetamine, cocaine and oxycodone are all Schedule II drugs, "because they have medical applications," Bostwick said. "So, it's not as if we don't have precedent for substances that are dangerous from an addictive point of view being useful in certain medical situations."

Studies have shown that marijuana might help decrease chronic pain and nausea, ease seizures, improve the appetite or be useful in psychiatric treatment, Wergin and Bostwick said.

But none of those studies has been large-scale and a definitive clinical trial. The reason: because marijuana's DEA drug status prevents scientists from using large quantities of the plant in medical research, Wergin and Bostwick said.

All marijuana available for research purposes in the United States is grown at the University of Mississippi, which has an exclusive contract with the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to provide the nation's entire research supply, according to the DEA's memo to lawmakers.

In any given year, NIDA sends shipments of marijuana to a small handful of researchers, usually eight or nine, but sometimes as many as 12, the memo states. Researchers must go through a detailed registration process to gain access to the pot.

The American Medical Association (AMA) has come out in favor of loosening drug laws to "develop a special schedule for marijuana to facilitate study of its potential medical utility in prescription drug products," according to a statement its officials provided ABC News.

"While studies related to a limited number of medical conditions have shown promise for new cannabinoid-based prescription products, the scope of rigorous research needs to be expanded to a broader range of medical conditions for such products," the AMA added.

Back in December 2014, the American Academy of Neurology lamented the lack of solid marijuana research in a position paper.

Due to strict drug laws, researchers have not been able to determine whether medical marijuana could help treat neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease, the academy said.

The academy's paper concluded with a call to deschedule marijuana and open it up to more research.

Expanded research wouldn't necessarily lead to more people smoking pot for medical purposes, Wergin and Bostwick said.

Instead, it's more likely that researchers would focus on how the components of marijuana, such as THC or cannabidiol, interact with the body in ways that might help ease symptoms or illness.

An entire system of receptors has been discovered throughout the body that responds to different components of cannabis, Bostwick said.

"Almost any system you name in the body has a potential cannabinoid receptor that could be manipulated in a way that could be useful," he said. "When the drug was outlawed in 1970, we knew almost nothing about it. In the intervening 45 years, science has shown this endocannabinoid system actually exists. None of that was known when the drug was made illegal."

Such research could result in medications derived from marijuana that would treat conditions without a "high," Wergin said.

Wergin sees two main potential benefits from the descheduling of marijuana and any resulting boom in research.

First, he'd know what to tell patients about pot's particular benefits. And second, he'd feel confident issuing a prescription for a marijuana-based medication, knowing that it's a drug regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

"This would result in higher-quality standardized product that's FDA-approved," Wergin said. "If I prescribe you an antibiotic, I'm very confident of what's in it because of the FDA regulations on it. I don't know how to prescribe marijuana to you, or what's even in it."

Paul Armentano, deputy director of the marijuana legalization group NORML, said that at this point a reclassification by the DEA would fall "well short of the sort of federal reform necessary to reflect America's emerging reefer reality."

Armentano added that even with descheduling, federal law still would require researchers to buy pot from NIDA's University of Mississippi marijuana cultivation program.

"Simply rescheduling cannabis from I to II does not necessarily change these regulations, at least in the short-term," Armentano said.

View Article Sources

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/news/20160510/what-a-change-in-deas-pot-rules-might-mean-for-medical-research

Accepting Your Chronic Pain

Today's post from painpathways.org (see link below) is a short but useful article suggesting ways to handle the pain that may be dominating your life. Sometimes the first step to making pain less of a feature in your life is accepting it for what it is. Sounds glib but it may well be true. As soon as we experience chronic pain, we try to deny it, remove it, or allow it to overwhelm us but making peace with the fact that it's there and for a reason, allows us to relax and work on ways to reduce its influence. Worth a read.

Pain And Acceptance

Dr Rosemary Fish Posted: June 2, 2014
 
Dr. Rosemary Fish and her associates state that chronic pain acceptance “involves experiencing ongoing pain without attempts to avoid, reduce or otherwise control it … and engaging in everyday activities of value to the individual in the presence of pain, and disengaging from the struggle to limit contact with pain.”Acceptance is generally described as having two parts: pain willingness and activity engagement.

(1) PAIN WILLINGNESS

Pain willingness refers to being willing to live with pain, to reduce frustrating attempts toward making the pain go away (while continuing those that help), to understanding that pain is part of who you are now. It is leaving behind the pressing need you likely had at the beginning of your pain problem that drove you to find a diagnosis, a treatment, a cure.

(2) ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT

Activity engagement reflects the idea that you are moving on with your life, doing the things that matter as best you can, even though you have pain. It is being willing to do things even though you may hurt while doing them. It is recognizing that you can either stay home and hurt or go out and hurt. Researchers have found that acceptance seems to be generally helpful and has been associated with reduced pain severity, less distress and lower pain interference and disability.

A key factor in acceptance seems to be the state of mind of avoidance versus engagement. When you strive to control, get rid of, manage, find a cure for pain, you have an avoidance mindset. You are struggling and fighting and perhaps putting your life on hold until you can end your pain. Needless to say, this is a very stressful state of affairs that puts most of your focus and your energy on your pain— and it gets in the way of living. The engagement mindset has a very different “feel” to it. You are not pretending that you don’t have pain; rather you are saying to yourself, “Yes, I know I have pain and I wish I didn’t, but I will work to engage my life, my goals and my friends and family anyway.”It is not denying that you have pain. It is choosing to move your focus away from pain—onto living.

You may be skeptical about everything that you just read. You may think your pain is too severe or that you are too disabled or that it isn’t possible to accept living with pain. I agree: these are challenging ideas. I hope you will take sometime to think about them. I think they are worth thinking about. You may find that acceptance actually brings some relief to your suffering and opens doors that you thought were locked. {PP}

http://www.painpathways.org/pain-acceptance/

How The Antibiotic Ceftriaxone Can Reduce Chronic Pain

Today's short post from news-medical.net (see link below) looks at the potential for an antibiotic being used for analgesic purposes. Studies have shown that a dose of Ceftriaxone, an antibiotic used to kill microbes before surgery, has a significant effect on pain thresholds after the surgery. A small Italian study is mentioned here, involving 45 patients undergoing neuro surgery of one form or another. Those patients who had been injected with a single dose of the antibiotic prior to surgery could withstand post operative pain significantly better than those who did not. There are implications for the future treatment of neuropathic pain, if the process can be further refined and better targeted. This sort of study may mean little to the casual reader but it does illustrate the process of getting a new treatment into general practice. First, as is the case here, a success story has to be spotted and then others will take the idea or theory and try to apply it to other general situations. It may take years but at least you now know that an antibiotic can perform an analgesic function and may provide an alternative pain prevention tool in the future.

Study explores analgesic activity of ceftriaxone in humans

Published on June 26, 2013

A single dose of the antibiotic ceftriaxone given for antimicrobial prophylaxis prior to surgery enhanced patient pain thresholds after the procedure, according to a study published in The Journal of Pain, the peer review publication of the American Pain Society, www.americanpainsociety.org.

Previous studies have shown that drugs with a mode of action to enhance glutamate clearance might be effective in the treatment of chronic pain. In animals, repeated does of the antibiotic ceftriaxone have reduced both visceral and neuropathic pain. The drug induces activation of the GLT-1 gene. This is the first study to explore the analgesic activity of ceftriaxone in humans.

Researchers at University Sapienza in Rome analyzed whether a single dose of ceftriaxone given for antimicrobial prophylaxis prior to surgery could enhance patient pain thresholds after surgery. Forty-five patients undergoing surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome or ulner nerve compression disease participated in the study. They were randomized in three treatment groups: IV doses of saline, saline with ceftriaxone and saline with cefazolin. Injections were administered one hour prior to surgery, and mechanical pain thresholds were measured 10 minutes before the injections and 4 to 6 hours following surgery. No analgesic drugs were allowed in the first six hours after surgery.

Results in the human subjects showed that those treated with saline and cefazolin showed no change in mechanical pain thresholds six to seven hours after surgery, but pain thresholds in patients given a single preoperative does of ceftriaxone increased significantly.

This is the first study showing analgesia resulted from administration of an antibiotic in humans. The authors concluded that ceftriaxone should be the drug of choice for surgical prophylaxis in situations when pain does not rapidly resolve following surgery or when strong pain is expected to occur after surgery.

SOURCE American Pain Society

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20130626/Study-explores-analgesic-activity-of-ceftriaxone-in-humans.aspx

Can Poor Sleep Patterns Cause Chronic Pain In Older People

Today's article from sciencedaily.com (see link below) looks at the link between restless and disturbed sleep patterns and chronic pain, especially amongst older people. I think almost everybody living with chronic pain can identify with that. A bad night's sleep almost always results in more pain in the morning. Whether it's the pain that causes the poor sleep, or the other way around, is the question.
 

Could Restless Sleep Cause Widespread Pain in Older People? 
Date:
February 13, 2014
Source:
Wiley
 
Summary:
Researchers in the U.K. report that non-restorative sleep is the strongest, independent predictor of widespread pain onset among adults over the age of 50. According to the study anxiety, memory impairment, and poor physical health among older adults may also increase the risk of developing widespread pain. Muscle, bone and nerve (musculoskeletal) pain is more prevalent as people age, with up to 80% of people 65 years of age and older experiencing daily pain. Widespread pain that affects multiple areas of the body —- the hallmark feature of fibromyalgia —- affects 15% of women and 10% of men over age 50 according to previous studies.

Researchers in the U.K. report that non-restorative sleep is the strongest, independent predictor of widespread pain onset among adults over the age of 50. According to the study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology (formerly Arthritis & Rheumatism), a journal of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), anxiety, memory impairment, and poor physical health among older adults may also increase the risk of developing widespread pain.

Muscle, bone and nerve (musculoskeletal) pain is more prevalent as people age, with up to 80% of people 65 years of age and older experiencing daily pain. Widespread pain that affects multiple areas of the body -- the hallmark feature of fibromyalgia -- affects 15% of women and 10% of men over age 50 according to previous studies.

Led by Dr. John McBeth from the Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele University in Staffordshire, this newly published population-based prospective study identified factors that increase the risk of the development of widespread pain in older adults. The team collected data on pain, psychological and physical health, lifestyle and demographic information from 4326 adults over the age of 50 who were free of widespread pain at the start of the study (1562 subjects reported no pain and 2764 had some pain). These participants were followed up three years later for the development of widespread pain.

Results show that at follow-up, 800 (19%) reported new widespread pain. The development of new widespread pain was greater in those with some pain at the start of the study; 679 (25%) of those with some pain and 121 (8%) of those with no pain at the start developed new widespread pain at three year follow-up.

Analyses determined that pain status, anxiety, physical health-related quality of life, cognitive complaint and non-restorative sleep were associated with increased risk of widespread pain development, after adjusting for osteoarthritis (OA). Increasing age was associated with a decreased likelihood of the development of widespread pain.

"While OA is linked to new onset of widespread pain, our findings also found that poor sleep, cognition, and physical and psychological health may increase pain risk," concludes Dr. McBeth. "Combined interventions that treat both site-specific and widespread pain are needed for older adults."

Story Source:

The above story is based on materials provided by Wiley. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Journal Reference:
John McBeth, Rosie J Lacey, Ross Wilkie. Predictors of new onset widespread pain in older adults Results from the prospective population-based NorStOP study. Arthritis & Rheumatology, 2013; DOI: 10.1002/art.38284

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/02/140213083711.htm

Opioids For Chronic Pain Vid

Some very sensible advice and information in this short YouTube clip about the use of opioids in tackling both neuropathic pain and pain in general. The debate goes on but maybe be overhauled by over-hasty political reactions, leading to patients not being able to get the proper treatment any more.

Dr. Charles Argoff on Opioids as Treatment for Neuropathic Pain
Published on 19 Apr 2012


Charles Argoff, MD, from the Albany Medical Center, in Albany, NY, discusses the use of opioids as an effective treatment option for neuropathic pain, along with guidelines clinicians should consider when evaluating patients for treatment with opioids.

Neuropathy Knowledge What Is Chronic Pain

Today's post from sciencedaily.com (see link below) is the second part of a series from the same source providing readers with explanations and information about many of the medical terms they hear when researching neuropathy, or sitting in the doctor's surgery and talking about it. Today it explains the term 'chronic pain' and gives related definitions of other words associated with this level of pain. People are often confused by the term chronic pain and aren't sure of the difference between that and ordinary or severe pain, especially in relation to neuropathy. Worth following the links if you have the time.

Chronic pain
Science Daily via Wikipedia

Chronic pain was originally defined as pain that has lasted 6 months or longer.

It is now defined as pain that persists longer than the normal course of time associated with a particular type of injury.

Chronic pain is essentially caused by the bombardment of the central nervous system (CNS) with nociceptive impulses, which causes changes in the neural response.

The pain subsequently provokes changes in the behavior of the patient, and the development of fear-avoidance strategies.

As a result, the patient may also become physically atrophied and deconditioned.

However, it is important to remember that chronic pain is multifactorial, with the underlying biological changes affecting physical and psychosocial factors.

For more information about the topic Chronic pain, read the full article at Wikipedia.org, or see the following related articles:


Fatigue (physical) — Fatigue is a state, following a period of mental or physical activity, characterized by a lessened capacity for work and reduced efficiency of ...  read more


Laryngitis — Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx. It causes hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal ... read more


Multi-infarct dementia — Multi-infarct dementia, also known as vascular dementia, is a form of dementia resulting from brain damage caused by stroke or transient ischemic ...  read more


Cluster headache — Cluster headaches are rare, extremely painful and debilitating headaches that occur in groups or clusters. Cluster headache sufferers typically ...  read more


Pain — Pain's an unpleasant sensation which may be associated with actual or potential tissue damage and which may have physical and emotional components. ... read more


Tension headache — Tension headaches, which were recently renamed tension type headaches by the International Headache Society, are the most common type of headaches. ... read more


Drug addiction — Drug addiction, or substance dependence is the compulsive use of psychoactive drugs, to the point where the user has no effective choice but to ... read more


Back pain — Back pain (also known as "dorsopathy") is pain felt in the human back that may come from the spine, muscles, nerves, or other structures in the back. ...  read more


Analgesic — An analgesic (colloquially known as painkillers) is any member of the diverse group of drugs used to relieve pain and to achieve analgesia. This ... read more


Blister — A blister or bulla is a defense mechanism of the human body. It consists of a pool of lymph and other bodily fluids beneath the upper layers of the ...  read more

http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/c/chronic_pain.htm

Knowing Treatment for chronic sciatic nerve pain

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Stop The Stigma Against Chronic Pain Sufferers

Today's post from paincommunity.org (see link below) is another very forceful article from Teresa Shaffer on behalf of chronic pain sufferers. Many people living with neuropathy fall into that category and should read this article if they feel doubted, demeaned or belittled by others, especially medical professionals and the media. She encourages people to be more proactive in fighting back against such stigma and she's quite right. Well worth a read.

Now is the Time to Scream, Holler and Shout!
Posted by Teresa Shaffer | August 19, 2014

I recently wrote a blog titled, Enough is Enough! Stop the Stigma Against People Living with Pain. This is the second entry sharing the frustration that I, along with other people living with pain, face every day. I am angry, fed up and I am not afraid to talk about it. Now is the time for me to scream, holler and shout!

I am sick to death of the media playing havoc with our lives with articles that are meant to cause fear and written with poorly researched information. I am sick to death of reading article after article written because someone who is out for political gain or to advance their own agenda. I am sick to death of their walking on the backs of people living with pain in order to achieve fame, power or other forms of influence.

From all of this biased and what I consider sloppy media coverage you would never know that there have been some really great advances in the science of pain and pain management. Pain continues to be misunderstood, untreated, undertreated or improperly treated and poor media coverage deserves to “take it on the chin” as they have contributed to this situation. Their sham journalism continues to deflate any hope that is out there and makes the situation seem dire for those living in pain.

People living with pain: You do have some wonderful allies out there like, The Pain Connection, the State Pain Policy Advocacy Network (SPPAN), National Pain Report, US Pain Foundation and The Pain Community (TPC) just to name a few. We need to step up and help those who are trying to help us. We can no longer hide away and wait for someone else to fix this problem.

We are being blamed for drug abuse in this country and this must stop. People living with pain are being used as stepping stones to move forward personal causes and political agendas.Are we to believe that this pretense is just about drug abuse?

Come on, really? Were we born yesterday?

Yes, absolutely there is a drug abuse problem in this country. Yes, people are dying from drug abuse. Yes, it is heartbreaking for the loved ones left behind to carry on. I can say without a doubt that I, along with most people living with pain, feel sadness for those families who have been affected. People living with pain do not want to hear of anyone dying from abuse just like we do not want to hear of people with pain who give up and commit suicide. Like chronic pain, addiction is a disease which deserves to be treated as such. Changing the formula of all the pain medications to try to make them tamper-resistant is one step forward but that is not going to stop drug abuse. Someone who is fighting the demons of abuse will always find a way to get what their body is craving. Treatment of the problem is key; the elephant in the room is that those who choose to abuse medications must receive treatment to help break the cycle of abuse.

We must use education and treatment to help curb the start of abuse. We must use education to stop young people from participating in “pill parties or pharm parties”, where all types of over the counter and prescription medications are placed in a bowl and people take them to get high. For some, the pills they take cause overdose and death. It is the behavior that is at fault, yet no one wishes to face this and take on the responsibility of dealing with the cause directly. It is far easier to demonize the medication, rather than the activity. Parents need to be better informed about these dangers.

Look, we should be working together to start moving forward and making a difference rather than against each other. We must start treating those who abuse so they can take back their lives and allow people living with pain to once again find healthcare providers willing to treat them. Do I need to remind you that chronic pain is a real and complex disease too?

So, stop putting the issue of drug abuse on the backs of people living with pain and start making a difference by treating addiction as a disease. Those who abuse do so to escape from the stress of life and to do that they seek an altered state of mind. People living with pain are not looking for that “high” or means of escape. We are desperately trying to find at least a brief moment of pain relief. We only want the chance to be able to participate in life with family and friends and to be able to continue to work and support our families.

To each of you who live with pain, I must be frank. We can no longer afford to sit back and complain behind closed doors about how stigma and discrimination is affecting us. We must stand up and be heard. Who has become my health provider nowadays? I ask this because it sure seems like my well-being and health care has been taken out of the hands of my health care provider or should I say stolen. Politicians, law enforcement, journalists and others with narrow points of view and self interest are the thieves. Their motives have nothing to do with what is in my best interest; I can assure you of that! My optimal health care depends on my health care provider and me! We need to tell these encroachers to butt out of our pain care!!

Do you honestly think that these “journalists” care about us, the ones living with pain? They would rather talk to self-proclaimed experts who spout unsubstantiated claims and pass it off as the truth. They don’t care that they are making it harder and harder for legitimate people living with pain to receive the care that is needed to live our lives with less pain. We are merely the “unintentional consequence”—the nameless, faceless statistic that is frequently misinterpreted or maligned. The almighty dollar is what serves as master. They aren’t living with pain so it is not hurting them. They have they own agenda, sell newspapers, magazines and get those hits from the internet, in other words, keep their jobs. So, articles are badly written, “facts” are not verified, stories are slanted to one-side to ensure those that read it become more fearful. These articles rarely tell both sides of the story which would be the right thing to do, take time to develop and result in what is considered good journalism—a fading talent.

Please don’t take the following statements wrong; I would never ever wish a life of chronic pain on any one. However, I have often wondered:
How fast these news articles would change and both sides of the story would be told IF the editors and/or writers were suddenly thrust into a life of pain.
To those politicians and others who are advocating for medications to be taken off the market: How fast do you think the tables would turn if it was you or a loved one dealing with pain?

I bet we would hear the person with pain’s side of the story then and the politicians and the media would move heaven and earth to ensure they or a loved one had access to all treatments available, including opioid pain medications. Gosh, insurance companies might even start paying for appropriate pain care! That would be a novel thought.

Here is reality. Those of us living with pain are not asking for special treatment; we only wish that we can have our pain treated with appropriate treatments including pain medications when/if appropriate. We are only asking, no we are begging for the right to be able to see a healthcare provider who is not afraid of the DEA breaking down his/her door. We are asking, no begging that we are able to go into a pharmacy and to fill our lawful prescriptions without the stares, without being “outed” in public that we are taking pain medication or the interrogation from pharmacists who are trying to decide if we are legitimate human beings or not.

Until you have lived with never-ending pain that literally takes your breath away and makes it impossible to sit, stand or lay down for any length of time, please stop thinking you know what is best for us. You, who live without pain, have no idea what a life of pain is like and I hope those of you who call yourselves experts in these media articles never do feel the pain I live with 24/7.

Please hear me. Stop the mistruths, the propaganda and promotion of your personal agenda. Start trying to make a difference in lessening drug abuse and improving pain care, in an effective way, that is guided by public health solutions and critical research rather than sanctions and policing. Work together with all interested parties and educate about medication safety. Stop the fiction and biased articles and start telling both sides of this story. Currently, we are just running in circles and chasing our tails. Drug abuse has continued on like a moving target while legitimate people living with pain are running head on to more and more barriers in care. People are being hurt on both sides of this issue. People are dying on both sides, too.

In the words of Forrest Gump, “Stupid is as stupid does”. I am tired of stupid, aren’t you? Now is the time to scream, holler and shout!

http://paincommunity.org/now-time-scream-holler-shout/

Chronic Fatigue And Neuropathy Self Help Tips

Today's post from kansas.com (see link below) is an article by TV's well-known Drs. Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen and talks about what you can do to help yourself if you are suffering from chronic fatigue. It's very much in his style but the advice is good for most people. If you have neuropathy, you'll know how tiring both the symptoms and the pain can be, especially if your night rest is continually interrupted by the symptoms. This can easily reach a point where you are constantly weary, both mentally and physically; something that some doctors give insufficient credence to. If there's anything here that can help you improve the situation then the article is worth while but remember, you can only do what you can do and with neuropathy, overdoing it can make things worse.

New treatments ease chronic fatigue syndrome for some
By DRS. OZ AND ROIZEN: Published Monday, Feb. 25, 2013

An estimated 1 million North Americans, mostly women ages 40 to 60, have chronic fatigue syndrome.

Only between 5 percent and 10 percent of people with chronic fatigue syndrome recover from the wide range of symptoms that include fatigue, brain fog and everything from digestive woes to peripheral neuropathy and emotional problems.

But new research shows that around 20 percent can recover when ongoing treatment from a medical specialist is combined with graded exercise therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.

Graded exercise therapy starts with basic, low-intensity activity, like walking and/or stretching, and builds endurance gradually and progressively — never doing so much that it increases fatigue or worsens other symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy offers goal-oriented guidance to change behaviors that may make chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms worse.

Even more people might find relief if they used both treatments along with seeing a specialist, or if they continued those therapies for longer than the 14 weeks that the study did. Other ways to manage symptoms: Opt for an anti-inflammatory diet with lots of 100 percent whole grains and veggies, and make sure to take 900 mg a day of DHA omega-3 from algal oil and 420 mg of purified omega-7 daily.
Thank your Valentine for a healthier heart

Being married to, or living with, one Valentine slashes your risk of cardiac events (heart attack, stroke, etc.) by more than 60 percent for men and women.

And if you have a heart attack and true love, you’re up to 170 percent less likely to die from it than the unattached. What’s so healthy about enduring love? Everything from stress reduction and pleasant reminders (“take your vitamins, dear”) to having someone there to help if you get into trouble.

So, what can you take from this, whether you’re married or not, to benefit you?

• Make reducing stress a priority. If you get daily physical activity (walking 10,000 steps is a great goal), have someone to cuddle with, meditate for 10 minutes daily and work on being a more generous person (it lowers levels of stress hormones), you make your heart years younger.

• Get a buddy to work out with; call each other daily to keep your nutrition on track; and offer support through times good and bad.
Revving up your willpower

Want to motor up your willpower and supercharge your self-control? Here’s what to focus on:

• Strengthen your desire to feel better and look great. Try meditating 10 minutes a day using a mantra to guide you. Your mantra might be: “Food does not stress me; I eat for health.” Then sit comfortably in a quiet space and repeat that to yourself (silently or out loud) as you let your breath move in and out in a peaceful rhythm.

• Do willpower exercises: If you have the urge to eat something that’s not healthy, decide to flex your willpower muscles instead. Pump up the power and give yourself a pep talk: “Today, I choose fresh veggies and fruit.” As you use those muscles, they grow stronger and stronger. Soon you won’t have to challenge yourself; you’ll naturally opt for the healthier choices.

• Bonus tip: Flex your muscles — any muscles — as you tell yourself you will do the best, right thing. Just that act, done simultaneously with exerting your willpower, reinforces it and makes it easier to reach your goal.
Getting a leg up on 10,000 steps a day

We really like hearing from those of you who've taken up the heart-healthy, stress-relieving, wrinkle-banishing, brain-boosting benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day. But some of you tell us that getting 10,000 steps seems almost impossible. Well, it isn’t, and that’s because it’s 10,000 steps total — including walking the dog and walking downstairs to move the clothes from the washer to the dryer. Every step counts and improves your health, so you’re already on your way to hitting 10,000.

But don’t believe us. Get a pedometer and wear it from the time you get up until you hit the sack (it’s good to have two, so you can leave one in the car in case you forget to bring it with you). Then you’ll get an accurate picture of the whole enchilada.

Wearing a pedometer may make you want to be more active; you’ll want to see the total add up. You already know getting movin’ can improve blood pressure, boost good HDL and lower lousy LDL cholesterol levels, reduce stress and improve your love life. So, keeping track of your steps might get you to do that project in the yard or the basement (there’s another 500 steps, easy). And if you plan on a 30-minute walk at lunchtime, you may already be halfway there. Step out for an hour after work, you’ve done it.

Mehmet Oz, M.D., is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D., is chief medical officer at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute.

http://www.kansas.com/2013/02/25/2691690/drs-oz-and-roizen-new-treatments.html

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Can Serotonin Prolong Chronic Pain

Today's post from the ever-helpful sciencedaily.com (see link below) looks at how the brain can release extra serotonin in cases of chronic pain. The serotonin then acts on trigemninal nerve bundles and actually stimulates them to 'feel' the pain even more. A useful defence mechanism but unpleasant for the person with neuropathic pain. Reducing the serotonin flow may be the answer. It's a fascinating article but one that requires a little concentration from the reader.
 

Brain uses serotonin to perpetuate chronic pain signals in local nerves
Date:
January 23, 2014
Source:
Johns Hopkins Medicine
 
Summary: Setting the stage for possible advances in pain treatment, researchers have pinpointed two molecules involved in perpetuating chronic pain in mice. The molecules, they say, also appear to have a role in the phenomenon that causes uninjured areas of the body to be more sensitive to pain when an area nearby has been hurt

Setting the stage for possible advances in pain treatment, researchers at The Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland report they have pinpointed two molecules involved in perpetuating chronic pain in mice. The molecules, they say, also appear to have a role in the phenomenon that causes uninjured areas of the body to be more sensitive to pain when an area nearby has been hurt. A summary of the research will be published on Jan. 23 in the journal Neuron.

"With the identification of these molecules, we have some additional targets that we can try to block to decrease chronic pain," says Xinzhong Dong, Ph.D., associate professor of neuroscience at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and an early career scientist at Howard Hughes Medical Institute. "We found that persistent pain doesn't always originate in the brain, as some had believed, which is important information for designing less addictive drugs to fight it."

Chronic pain that persists for weeks, months or years after an underlying injury or condition is resolved afflicts an estimated 20 to 25 percent of the population worldwide and about 116 million people in the U.S., costing Americans a total of $600 billion in medical interventions and lost productivity. It can be caused by everything from nerve injuries and osteoarthritis to cancer and stress.

In their new research, the scientists focused on a system of pain-sensing nerves within the faces of mice, known collectively as the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is a large bundle of tens of thousands of nerve cells. Each cell is a long "wire" with a hub at its center; the hubs are grouped together into a larger hub. On one side of this hub, three smaller bundles of wires -- V1, V2 and V3 -- branch off. Each bundle contains individual pain-sensing wires that split off to cover a specific territory of the face. Signals are sent through the wires to the hubs of the cells and then travel to the spinal cord through a separate set of bundles. From the spinal cord, the signals are relayed to the brain, which interprets them as pain.

When the researchers pinched the V2 branch of the trigeminal nerve for a prolonged period of time, they found that the V2 and V3 territories were extra sensitive to additional pain. This spreading of pain to uninjured areas is typical of those experiencing chronic pain, but it can also be experienced during acute injuries, as when a thumb is hit with a hammer and the whole hand throbs with pain.

To figure out why, the researchers studied pain-sensing nerves in the skin of mouse ears. The smaller branches of the trigeminal V3 reach up into the skin of the lower ear. But an entirely different set of nerves is responsible for the skin of the upper ear. This distinction allowed the researchers to compare the responses of two unrelated groups of nerves that are in close proximity to each other.

To overcome the difficulty of monitoring nerve responses, Dong's team inserted a gene into the DNA of mice so that the primary sensory nerve cells would glow green when activated. The pain-sensing nerves of the face are a subset of these.

When skin patches were then bathed in a dose of capsaicin -- the active ingredient in hot peppers -- the pain-sensing nerves lit up in both regions of the ear. But the V3 nerves in the lower ear were much brighter than those of the upper ear. The researchers concluded that pinching the connected-but-separate V2 branch of the trigeminal nerve had somehow sensitized the V3 nerves to "overreact" to the same amount of stimulus.

Applying capsaicin again to different areas, the researchers found that more nerve branches coming from a pinched V2 nerve lit up than those coming from an uninjured one. This suggests that nerves that don't normally respond to pain can modify themselves during prolonged injury, adding to the pain signals being sent to the brain.

Knowing from previous studies that the protein TRPV1 is needed to activate pain-sensing nerve cells, the researchers next looked at its activity in the trigeminal nerve. They showed it was hyperactive in injured V2 nerve branches and in uninjured V3 branches, as well as in the branches that extended beyond the hub of the trigeminal nerve cell and into the spinal cord.

Next, University of Maryland experts in the neurological signaling molecule serotonin, aware that serotonin is involved in chronic pain, investigated its role in the TRPV1 activation study. The team, led by Feng Wei, M.D., Ph.D., blocked the production of serotonin, which is released from the brain stem into the spinal cord, and found that TRPV1 hyperactivity nearly disappeared.

Says Dong: "Chronic pain seems to cause serotonin to be released by the brain into the spinal cord. There, it acts on the trigeminal nerve at large, making TRPV1 hyperactive throughout its branches, even causing some non-pain-sensing nerve cells to start responding to pain. Hyperactive TRPV1 causes the nerves to fire more frequently, sending additional pain signals to the brain."

Story Source:

The above story is based on materials provided by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Journal Reference:
Yu Shin Kim, Yuxia Chu, Liang Han, Man Li, Zhe Li, Pamela Colleen LaVinka, Shuohao Sun, Zongxiang Tang, Kyoungsook Park, Michael J. Caterina, Ke Ren, Ronald Dubner, Feng Wei, Xinzhong Dong. Central Terminal Sensitization of TRPV1 by Descending Serotonergic Facilitation Modulates Chronic Pain. Neuron, 2014; DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2013.12.011

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140123124646.htm

Spinal Manipulation For Chronic Pain

Today's post from sciencedaily.com (see link below) looks at spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) as a means of reducing chronic pain in the back. central spinal sensitization is also a factor in peripheral neuropathic problems and SMT may also be able to play a role in lessening neuropathic pain too. The post is generally aimed at low back pain sufferers but it's an interesting read for all those living with chronic pain.

Spinal manipulative therapy reduces central pain sensitization 
Date:
February 25, 2014
Source:
American Pain Society

The lessening of pain sensitivity achieved with spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) occurs as a result of the treatment and not as much from a placebo effect caused by the expectation of receiving SMT. Chronic low back pain is associated with altered pain processing, suggesting a mechanism related to central sensitization of pain. Central sensitization is considered a factor in the progression of acute pain to chronic pain and in the maintenance of chronic pain.

The lessening of pain sensitivity achieved with spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) occurs as a result of the treatment and not as much from a placebo effect caused by the expectation of receiving SMT, according to a study published in The Journal of Pain.

Spinal manipulative therapy has been shown to reduce the severity of low back pain in some patients. Improved understanding of its pain-relieving mechanisms could enhance clinical effectiveness.

Chronic low back pain is associated with altered pain processing, suggesting a mechanism related to central sensitization of pain. Central sensitization is considered a factor in the progression of acute pain to chronic pain and in the maintenance of chronic pain.

Researchers from the University of Florida investigated whether lessening of pain sensitivity attributed to SMT is specific to the procedure itself or occurs as a placebo effect from treatment expectation. Studies have shown that placebo is associated with robust analgesia produced by anticipation of pain relief.

Subjects for the study had low back pain and were recruited from the University of Florida campus. Participants underwent baseline pressure and thermal pain testing and were randomly assigned to SMT, placebo SMT, enhanced placebo SMT (same as placebo SMT except subjects were informed they would get SMT or a placebo intervention) or no intervention. The 110 study subjects had repeat mechanical and thermal pain sensitivity testing to measure immediate, within session, change in pain sensitivity.

Results showed that significantly more participants receiving the enhanced placebo SMT indicated good to excellent outcomes than those receiving standard placebo SMT or no treatment. A significant difference was not found between subjects receiving SMT and the enhanced placebo.

The authors concluded their findings reveal a mechanism of SMT unrelated to the expectation of receiving SMT, but from modulation of dorsal horn excitability and lessening of central sensitization. This suggests potential for SMT to be a clinically beneficial intervention.

Story Source:

The above story is based on materials provided by American Pain Society. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Journal Reference:
Joel E. Bialosky, Steven Z. George, Maggie E. Horn, Donald D. Price, Roland Staud, Michael E. Robinson. Spinal Manipulative Therapy–Specific Changes in Pain Sensitivity in Individuals With Low Back Pain (NCT01168999). The Journal of Pain, 2014; 15 (2): 136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2013.10.005
 
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/02/140225122220.htm

The Things You Miss With Chronic Pain

Today's post from kevinmd.com is a powerful personal story from someone who has realised that her chronic pain has led to her missing out on so many things she used to take for granted. Both chronic neuropathy patients and the people closest to them will identify with many of the things mentioned here. Maybe acknowledging what's gone from your life may be the first step to recovering it in ways relevant to your current situation.

What chronic pain and illness make me miss the most
TONI BERNHARD, JD | PATIENT | MAY 30, 2013

When I began to gather my thoughts for this piece, I asked my husband what he thought. It was eye-opening. Even after twelve years of illness, I forget that his life has been impacted as much as mine by my health limitations. This is partly because he’s changed his major task in life to that of caregiver and partly because we can no longer do most of the things we liked to do together. So this list applies to caregivers and loved ones too.

Two preliminary notes. First, I’m trying to keep a non-complaining tone as I write. Complaining does me no good. These are factual observations and I hope they come across that way. Second, it’s good to remember that there’s a tendency to rewrite our past and put it on a pedestal: “Those were the good old days.” But, in reality, my life before I got sick was a mixture of pleasant and unpleasant experiences, good times and tough times. For example, you’ll see “Time in Nature” on my list of what I miss most. But being outdoors when the mosquitoes were biting or when it was over 100 degrees (F) in the shade…that I don’t miss!

1. The ability to be spontaneous. My guess is that this is #1 on most people’s lists. Having to painstakingly plan everything out is not particularly fun. Having to then impose it on others is never fun. A few months ago my brother and sister-in-law drove from about an hour away to have dinner with us. But we couldn’t just say, “Come in the afternoon and we’ll visit and then eat a leisurely dinner,” because that won’t work for me. If I visit in the afternoon, I won’t be able to join them for dinner. And if they only come for dinner, it had better be an early one because I turn into a pumpkin at about 7:00. So they came at 4:30 and we ate dinner at 5:30. It was great to see them, but there was nothing spontaneous about the occasion—at least not to me.

If people unexpectedly call and say they’re in town and would like to come over for a bit, whether I can visit depends on the timing. I can’t get through the day without a nap… and then there’s that turning into a pumpkin in the evening that I referred to. Sometimes when they arrive, I find myself rushing off to the bedroom, as if I’m hiding out from them. Hiding out from people I want to see can be emotionally wrenching. Our house is small enough that, once I’m in the bedroom, at least I can lie on the bed and listen to everyone talking so long as I leave the door open. But that can be frustrating and painful when the conversation turns to something I’d like to participate in.

Then there’s the lack of spontaneity to be able to do something on the spur-of-the-moment, and this definitely impacts my husband. “Wow. Lincoln is playing in town. I’d love to see it!” But then comes the dose-of-reality voice in my mind: “Nice idea but it’s 2 1/2 hours long, so with the previews and ads, that’s closing in on three hours—much longer than you can sit up for. When you face that kind of wait at a doctor’s office, you have to ask for a room to lie down in. Must let Lincoln go I’m afraid.”

2. Variety. They say variety is the spice of life. My spice rack is pretty empty. I’m not complaining. It’s just the way things are. I know how fortunate I am to live in a comfortable house with a loving partner, but the fact is, every day is much the same for me and, some days, that “sameness” can get me down. My husband and I don’t even have the questionable luxury of dealing with variety in my health issues! Conversations between us about my health are always the same since it’s remained almost unchanged for a dozen years.

I miss the variety that comes from seeing different people. As a teacher, I used to stare out over a sea of as many as 100 different faces at one time. And when I wasn’t in the classroom, I was a people watcher. Sometimes at restaurants I’d imagine a “back story” to the lives of those I’d be watching. Now I pretty much see the same people every day…and I know their back stories!

3. Being actively involved in the life of my family. My children are grown but I have two granddaughters. I miss going to events at their schools and to recitals and the like. But mostly, I wish I could take them on little outings. A month ago, my husband took the hour drive to our granddaughter’s house for the sole purpose of taking her across the Bay Bridge to ride a cable car in San Francisco.

That’s what I miss.

4. Socializing. The peak hours for socializing coincide with when I’m “down”—noontime (I’m napping) and evenings (I’m that pumpkin). And we’ve found that a partner doesn’t get invited over to dinner when the other partner is sick. Were my husband single, we feel certain he’d get those invitations. We don’t judge others negatively over this because we recognize that they may think he wouldn’t want to come alone, or they may feel uncomfortable about leaving me out. But the fact remains: he has almost as limited a social life as I do.

What I miss most about socializing is something I wouldn’t have predicted. I wrote about this in my book How to Be Sick: I miss those moments afterward when my husband and I would “debrief” each other about what transpired at a gathering—gossipy though it might be. Who drank too much. Who was such a kick to talk to. Who we might want to invite over. Who we’d be happy never to see again! Now we do that kind of sharing over characters that show up on our TV. Really!

5. Time in nature. Some of you may miss the wilderness. My time in nature was more “tamed.” I spent a lot of time at University of California—Davis’ Arboretum. It sits next to the law school building where I worked, and I walked the paths that line its creek almost every day. I knew almost every plant and tree and how they look during each of the four seasons. I knew where the little green heron would be watching for fish and where the turtles would be sunning themselves on the banks of the creek. I didn’t miss my walk even if it was pouring rain. I had a big umbrella and special shoes for the occasion.

6. The ability to pursue my former interests. Perhaps you were an active outdoors person or an avid moviegoer or politically active. One of my favorite pastimes was bird-watching. I had a little journal in which I recorded each sighting: the place, the day and time, the type of bird. From a friend who was an expert birder, I learned that the best way to identify a bird was to look for and then memorize some unusual feature. I’d do that and then when I’d get home, look in one of my many bird books and, with that feature in mind, identify the bird. If I couldn’t find it, it went down in my journal as an LBJ, a designation taught to me by another birder friend: Little Brown Job. I still bird watch but my sightings are pretty much limited to what I see from the house: house finches and white-crowned sparrows in winter; doves and robins in spring; a quick fly through of cedar waxwings if I can catch them; scrub jays and the occasional mockingbird year-around.

Scrub jays are so common in California’s Central Valley (we call them scrubbers) that I forget just how stunning they are. Sometimes, I pretend that I’ve never seen one before, making it a rare sighting. When I do, I’m amazed at the incredible beauty of this bird with its iridescent bright blue and silver coloring. Never mind that its squawking can drive a person to drink (if I drank…)

7. The ability to putter around the house, engaging in pleasurable tasks. I loved to garden. Now, I occasionally transplant something. But most of my gardening is confined to pulling weeds because they’re what inevitably stare at me when I go outside.

I also loved to paint rooms. (Perhaps this was a holdover from my days as an undergrad in college when I painted houses in the summer.) This was one of my joys as a homeowner: paint a room one color and then…paint it another! Now I’m in a bedroom that badly needs painting (as well as a new rug), but I haven’t the ability to do what needs to be done for the preparation and then the disruption. The rug can be replaced…but can I handle being displaced? We’re considering it.

8. Health not being the topic of conversation. I miss not having my health be the elephant in the room whenever I’m around other people. Invariably (and often due to my own tendency to “drift” in that direction), the conversation turns to my health. I miss not thinking about it and I miss not talking about it.

Toni Bernhard was a law professor at the University of California—Davis. She is the author of How to Be Sick: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide for the Chronically Ill and their Caregivers. Her forthcoming book is titled How to Wake Up: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide to Navigating Joy and Sorrow. She can be found online at her self-titled site, Toni Bernhard.

http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2013/05/chronic-pain-illness.html

Guilt And Chronic Pain

Today's post from blogs.psychcentral.com (see link below) is another personal post from someone dealing with chronic pain in their life. It looks at something many neuropathy patients also feel and that is guilt. There is no logical reason for feeling this way but neuropathy is one of those diseases where onlookers can't tell from your appearance that you are living with chronic symptoms that affect every aspect of your life. As a result many people feel 'judged' by others and because the disease is difficult enough to explain to the layman, they feel guilty at putting other people through inconvenience. The even feel that they are being seen as fakers and somehow fraudulent. There are no quick and easy answers but remembering that you didn't ask for this condition and you can't help the way the symptoms make you feel, should help you find some balance. Guilt is a self-destructive emotion if it is misplaced but a very difficult one to rationalise.

Chronic Pain and Guilt
By Tracy Rydzy MSW, LSW

This is a little more poetic than usual and though I try to keep things positive, I am sure many of my readers can understand that sometimes, living with chronic pain can get you down.

I am drowning in an ocean. Every time I get my head above water and take a breath, the current sucks me back in again. Guilt; never-ending, all-consuming. No matter what changes I make, I am reminded of my failures time and again.

Living with a disability means I cannot be blamed for our misfortunes, that it is not “my fault,” and yet I feel like everything that goes wrong can be traced back to me. Although not “failures” by definition, I am constantly wracked with guilt. In the same way my body is constantly battered with pain, so is my mind with guilt. It pulls me under every time I try to breathe. Every time I try to move up in life, the guilt pulls me back under into the abyss.

I am trying to DO, but my body betrays me. I am dealing with a husband that left me, quoting, “I just want to be rid of you,” as the reason for divorce. The guilt that someone could see me as such an awful person that someone could want to dispose of me eats at me every minute of every day.

I started working freelance, a few hours a day, but my body protests. I had to stop working my regular job after the first surgery because I could not work with the chronic pain. Work makes me feel like I am participating in life, even if it is just writing here and there, instead of just letting it pass me by. It makes me feel like I can breathe. But just as I feel life coming back into me, I had my car accident and have additional injuries and pain. I was pummeled by another wave of guilt, and into the abyss I go.

Like an alarm that is set to go off every hour, I am repeatedly and constantly reminded that had I been able to be happy, do more, be a better wife, keep working, to keep contributing, I would still be married, not worrying how I will afford my next month of bills. Guilty.

I try again to swim, harder, faster. I sign up for acting class. I am happy, excited, there is a hint of life in my eyes that had long gone, when I am once again choked by guilt. Why am I spending money on something for myself? Why am I taking and not giving? Why am I trying to get more education when I already possess a useless master’s degree which my mind wants to make use of, but my body cannot? Guilty. But, before I can worry about that guilt, the money runs out and the classes that I lived for are gone anyway, making me angry, which in turn makes me feel, you guessed it- guilty!

How can I breathe? How am I supposed to get ahead of the currents of guilt? Every conversation, every argument reminds me that my life is my doing, my fault, my debts, my health, mine, mine, mine. And as I think this, one more wave pounds me, forcing me under. This has made me selfish and it has made others suffer. I am the one in pain, but I do not suffer alone. My family suffers for me. My soon-to-be ex suffered for me and when he could suffer no more, he placed all the blame on me and walked out the door, never to look back.

I can’t get through a day without being pulled under, without seeing the pain my disability has caused. In the same way my body screams at night from having sat too long, stood too long, moved too much, my mind is screaming with guilt that it is all my fault…and so I go with it. I stop swimming with the current, feel myself get sucked under…but damned if I don’t fight to get back to the surface. Why? Why don’t I just give up? If I knew why I fight when I desire nothing more than to quit, I would know why I am still here.

And so, every day I am struck with guilt, I fight to breathe and I swim against the current, however futile it may be. I hope to be free of this one day. I hope to understand what peace of mind is. I hope to finally take a breath of air.


My name is Tracy and I am a licensed social worker. I was working as a Social Worker, when an emergency spinal surgery 2 years ago changed my life and my career. I live with chronic pain and, as a result, I have taken my social work and writing skills, and made them into this blog. This blog is a humorous, informative, no-holds barred honest look at life with chronic pain, depression and disability.”
Like this author?
Catch up on other posts by Tracy Rydzy MSW, LSW (or subscribe to their feed).

http://blogs.psychcentral.com/chronic-pain/2013/08/chronic-pain-and-guilt/

The Stigma Of Chronic Pain

Today's article from paincommunity.org (see link below) is a very relevant one for people with the sort of severe neuropathy that brings them chronic pain on a daily basis. Because strong pain medications have such a bad rap these days, being associated with addiction and social problems, chronic pain sufferers face a constant stigma from a largely unaware public. Being tarred with the same brush as junkies and dealers and criminal behaviour, is a cruel irony when all you want to do is to be able to get through the day relatively pain free. It's largely the fault of the media who gobble up stories of opioid addiction and lay the blame for society's ills at a supposed over-prescription of opiates for pleasure. Opioids are sometimes the only option remaining for chronic pain patients and if monitored and used properly, are a very useful tool but if you tell people you have to take methadon or oxycontin for your pain, you're immediately branded as being socially irresponsible. This article highlights the problem and has the complete support of this blog.
 

Enough is Enough! Stop the Stigma Against People Living with Pain
Posted by Teresa Shaffer | August 5, 2014

It seems like just about every media article talking about pain medications has become a feeding frenzy which reports one side of the story. They take advantage of the uninformed and promote fear with biased and unsubstantiated claims that everyone who is prescribed an opioid medication has or will become addicted to the medications. They feed into the fear that if you have a loved one or friend who is prescribed one of these medications then you had better watch them closely because once addicted they will steal, cheat and lie to get their “fix.” This, my friend, is propaganda [information which is biased or misleading nature and used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view].

I am so sick of reading these articles. I am so angry at all those who continue to suggest, promote and endorse these types of stories to the media in an attempt to influence and sometimes brow beat government agencies and politicians to legislate tougher laws and regulations. They claim “their cause” is to address prescription drug abuse to prevent overdose and death, but their methods are short sighted. The so-called “un-intentional” consequence, to me, seems quite intentional. Why put the onus of substance abuse on people living with pain? We did not create this public health problem nor are most of us misusing, abusing or selling our pain medicine. We are too busy trying the best way we know how to live a worthwhile life with another public health problem—the undertreatment of pain! Why make it harder for the legitimate person with pain to obtain an effective medication needed to lessen their daily agony? Why scare our doctors out of wanting to help treat us? Don’t we have a right for some sense of normalcy in our lives?

You notice there is a lot of information missing from these articles. There is no mention of how pain medications allow some people living with pain to have functional lives. There is no mention of how pain medications allow some people living with pain to continue to work. There is no mention of how pain medications allow some people living with pain to have quality in their life. We want nothing more than to have our pain treated in a manner that allows us to live our lives just like people who have other chronic medical conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, cancer and so on. As with any chronic disease, it is not all about taking medications. As with other diseases, when you have chronic pain, it means a full treatment plan is required to help lessen the pain and regain function. People with pain often use exercise, physical therapy, water therapy, massage and so much more. It is NOT just a pill for every ill.

When someone reads one of these poorly researched and unbalanced articles, I can imagine that they start thinking about a family member or friend who lives with pain. Then, they may question whether that person has real or legitimate pain. I know readers must think that if you are taking an opioid pain medication for pain that you must be addicted to them. It’s no wonder; the definition of addiction as compared to physical dependence is often confused as one in the same and this is incorrect. This information is often touted and reinforced by so-called experts who know little about pain and its management and incorrectly equate pain treatment as all about the medications prescribed.

Please allow me to enlighten those of you who do not know the difference between tolerance, dependence, and addiction. These definitions have been recommended by respected medical societies, like the American Academy of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), the American Pain Society (APS) and the American Academy of Pain Medicine (AAPM).
Tolerance – Tolerance refers to a situation where a medicine becomes less effective over time. (Your body adapts and gets use to it.)
Dependence – Dependence means that a person who has been taking a medication for a long period of time can develop symptoms of withdrawal if the medication is suddenly stopped, the dose is lowered too quickly or another medication is given that reverses the effects. (Your body adapts and gets use to it.) This effect can happen with many medications not just pain medications, like steroids, certain heart medications and anti-depressants.
Addiction – Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related [nervous system] circuitry (ASAM). It is a condition where there is craving for this substance, the compulsive use despite harm, and impulse control loss of how they use the medication. The person does not care that they are harming themselves or others; they will do whatever it takes to obtain medications. They will engage in unacceptable and unsafe behaviors.

If you have a past history or current history of substance abuse the chance you will develop a problem taking opioid medications is higher than someone who does not have that history. Your level of risk should be considered before opioids are recommended. Yet, with open communication and close monitoring by your health care professional, even those at higher risk can take these pain medications more safely.

It is important to emphasize that no matter what your circumstance that these medications can be prescribed appropriately by knowledgeable clinicians and you take the medication safely if you do so as directed and report any problems immediately.

So how do we change this growing stigma against people living with pain? How do we fight back?
We get out there and enjoy our lives. We get out and do what we want to do, when we want to do it. We don’t let the fact that we use a cane, walker, crutches, wheelchair and other medical devices define us as part of the problem of drug abuse.
We stay informed and share our knowledge. When a friend or family member questions about addiction, we make sure we can give them facts and direct them to reliable resources. We must stop all the myths that are out there.
We must fight back with truth. Get angry and use that energy in a positive way. Take the time—NO, MAKE THE TIME and read what is published by the media. Comment back. Give them the facts and remind them of the harm they are contributing to by fueling distortions and misconceptions. Make them learn the other side of the story; offer to be interviewed, submit a letter to the editor, write a blog—take them to task.

Together we can make a change for the better. We can help stop this feeding frenzy that is making our lives with pain much more difficult than it has to be. If we don’t, who will?

http://paincommunity.org/enough-enough-stop-stigma-people-living-pain/

Cannabis For Chronic Pain A Personal Account

Today's post from americannewsreport.com (see link below) is a personal article talking about whether to take marijuana for chronic neuropathic pain or not. I'm sure many people have been faced with the same dilemmas but it is clear that the political climate is changing in this regard and more and more places are allowing cannabis/marijuana growth for just this very purpose. Science seems to back up the argument for cannabis as an efficient pain relief and when nothing else will help, it's certainly an option. If you are unsure about how to go about this, or of the legality in your own area, it may be worth contacting your doctor or local health authority for advice.
More articles about cannabis/marijuana for neuropathic pain on the alphabetical list to the right of this blog.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA. IS IT TIME?
Posted by Carol Levy THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

A Pained Life: Changing Attitudes about Medical Marijuana
July 17th, 2013 by Carol Levy, Columnist

When I was in my early 20’s, years before the onset of my pain, I was offered a marijuana cigarette. I didn't want it, but the pressure from my friend was so great I finally took it. I puffed on it once. I did not inhale.
I was not sure what effect it might have on me or how it might make me feel. I was afraid of it.
A few years ago, feeling desperate for anything that might help with the pain, I googled “medical marijuana.”

I found a site in Canada. The only requirement was that you send them a note with the name of your medical disorder. The seeds arrived in the mail and I planted them in the laundry room sink.

They were fast growers; within a week or so I had some beautiful plants.I wasn't sure how to use them. I also wasn't sure I had the nerve. It turned out my worry was for naught.

On my way to check on the plants I walked into my living room. My cat Rooty was running around the room, really, really enjoying herself. That was out of character. As soon as I walked into the laundry room I saw why. All of the plants had been eaten down to the root.

It let me off the hook. I no longer needed to make an active decision about trying “pot” for my pain.

I have been sitting on the sidelines on this issue. Although it has disturbed me that, despite proof of the benefits for those with cancer pain, loss of appetite, HIV and other disorders, medical marijuana has remained illegal in most states. Even when I am asked to sign petitions about making it legal I have not done so, not being sure exactly where I stand on the issue.

But then my self-interest came into play.

I have “phantom pain” of my face (anaesthesia dolorosa). This is a neuropathic disorder. It often defies treatment.

A recent study published in The Journal of Pain about vaporized cannabis significant improving neuropathic pain changed my mind. Although I have not become an active advocate, at least not yet, I follow the debate over medical marijuana much more closely. I am more willing to add my name to the petitions for making it legal.

As chronic pain patients, we are under fire from the DEA. Their rules have made it more and more difficult to get the narcotic medications many of us, including me, need. It has also made it harder for some patients to find doctors willing to prescribe them. That makes it even more important that alternative therapies be found.

Marijuana is one of those therapies.

The study is a small one, only 39 subjects, but the researchers found a significant benefit for those patients who have treatment resistant neuropathy. That would be me.

I know there are many reasons and many people who do not want to see medical marijuana legalized. However, for me and many others, it could mean the difference between staying disabled and being more able. Dare I hope, maybe even becoming “able.”

 http://americannewsreport.com/nationalpainreport/a-pained-life-changing-attitudes-about-medical-marijuana-8820892.html

Opioids It Can Be A Matter Of Semantics For Chronic Pain Sufferers

Today's short post from health.economictimes.indiatimes.com (see link below) has implications for neuropathy patients who have been forced to take opioids in order to control their pain. The current hoo-ha about opioids presents a real danger to patients who genuinely need them because literally nothing else works! This article takes the view that opioid prescription is questionable if there are no ensuing physical function benefits. However, you have to ask whether opioids were ever thought to improve physical function - they're not steroids after all. The point of opioids is that they dampen pain signals and if used properly, they're very effective indeed, so improved physical function is of secondary importance to neuropathy patients - the fact that their pain is reduced to a point where they can live more or less normal lives, is the priority. Physical function improvement can come from other sources. 

Opioids don't guarantee improvement in physical function IANS 24 January 2016

 Patients who were not prescribed any opioids had statistically lower disability and higher physical functioning scores.

People suffering from neuropathic pain complex, chronic pain that usually is accompanied by tissue injury report no improvement in physical functioning after taking opioids that tackle pain, researchers said.

"Even though opioid medications can be a powerful pain killer, it does not necessarily mean improved function will follow," said lead author Geoff Bostick, associate professor at the University of Alberta in Canada.

Patients who were not prescribed any opioids had statistically lower disability and higher physical functioning scores, the findings showed.

Opioids can help people with severe pain be more comfortable, but if they are not facilitating improved physical function, the impact of these medications on quality of life should be questioned, the researchers said in the study published in the journal Pain Medicine.

Stressing the importance of physical function, the researchers suggested that patients who are experiencing chronic pain and are medically cleared for physical activity should find a way to promote movement, even if it is painful.

The study looked at 789 patients across Canada who provided baseline measures of self-reported function, and again at six and 12 months after treatment.

These patients suffered with neuropathic pain from nerve injuries such as diabetic neuropathy and pinched nerves.

http://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/opioids-dont-guarantee-improvement-in-physical-function/50703209

Chronic Pain In The States Vid

Today's 5 minute video is an interview with Dr Paul Christo, who is a well-known pain expert. He addresses the problem of chronic pain in the USA which is pretty much repeated throughout the 1st world. He concentrates on improving people's knowledge of pain and what to do when it becomes a problem. His best advice is to form a relationship with your doctor so that you can both work on the problem together to achieve the best outcomes.

Chronic Pain in America - Dr. Paul Christo on Lifetime Television's The Balancing Act Show
Dr. Paul Christo Published on 6 Jun 2013

Dr. Paul Christo, leading pain expert from The John Hopkins Hospital and host of the radio show Aches and Gains, appears on The Balancing Act to talk about the epidemic of chronic pain in America, and where pain sufferers can go for relief.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apmsF1hhS1c#t=185

Non Medication Ways To Ease Chronic Pain Vid

Today's long (but valuable) post from theprincessinthetower.org (see link below) includes video clips and follows on from other recent posts about non-medication treatment options for living with chronic pain. Let's face it, we know there's no cure for neuropathic pain, there are just medications that for some people, can reduce the severity of the symptoms. There is therefore, nothing wrong with trying to find non-chemical options which may end up achieving the same levels of success. If you have found that natural treatment options have worked for you, please let the blog know and share your experiences with other readers.

Natural Ways to Ease Chronic Pain
Jo Malby The Princess in the Tower (No clear date)

Due to the wide variety of conditions that cause chronic pain, some of the following may not be suitable for everyone but always be proactive in your condition and search for relief because it is out there, even if it just takes the edge off, you could find a better quality of life simply through a course of complimentary medicine. Often it is a matter of trial and error to find the right therapy, or indeed therapist, to help you manage your chronic pain. Always listen to your body, be aware of the possibility of a healing crisis and do not be discouraged if you feel worse before you feel better, as this is often the nature of healing. The following is a list of valuable and proven pain-relieving treatments, which have all had positive benefits for many chronic pain patients:

Acupuncture - Long known for its pain-relieving properties, acupuncture also helps you achieve improved immunity and a greater sense of wellbeing. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is used to stimulate energy flow, or chi, removing blockages in your meridians, which are like rivers of energy; When a blockage of energy occurs, it is like a dam that backs up the flow and in turn leads to illness. Acupuncture unblocks the dam within a person’s energy system by inserting fine, sterile – and usually disposable – needles a few millimetres into your skin at specific points on the body. This causes surprisingly little, if any, discomfort; you may experience a tingling sensation where the needle is inserted or a brief dull ache, but also a general feeling of the energy moving coupled with deep relaxation.

The physician can determine exactly where the energy is blocked and can then use needles, pressure or cauterisation, either directly at the site of the blockage or through some remote acupuncture point, to unblock it - a little like dynorod. Needles are usually left in place for anything between 10 and 30 minutes and may be rotated or tapped to increase or disperse energy. Occasionally, acupressure points may be stimulated by moxibustion, which is the burning a small cone of dried Chinese herb known as moxa – usually artemesia vulgaris latiflora – close to or on the point to warm, nourish and stimulate weak chi in areas that are cold or painful. Acupuncture also releases endorphins into the body, boosting mood and overall well-being. During treatment, very fine needles are placed in acupuncture points to reduce your symptoms and pain, it is also immensely helpful at balancing fatigue.

Massage Therapy - Releasing tension in the body, stimulating blood flow, relaxing tired muscles and helping relieve pain, massage therapy is hugely popular for patients with a diverse range of conditions from Lupus to CFS, Fibromyalgia to arthritis. Therapeutic massage comes in range of treatments from highly skilled therapists, among their more gentle forms of massage are remedial massage, aromatherapy - which combines the healing power of essential oils and soothing movements - and hot stone massage, which swiftly warms the muscles, bringing fast relief and relaxation. Caution must be taken regarding the intensity, because the pain can be aggravated by massage that is too aggressive. Avoid deep tissue work or stronger forms of body treatment, in case they induce a flare-up.

Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga - This is the most gentle form of yoga about, so gentle in fact, at the beginning the exercises will hardly feel like moving at all, as such tiny movements are employed to begin strengthening patients who have perhaps been bedridden for a prolonged period of time. Restorative Yoga is a restful, passive form of yoga designed to open the body deeply but gently. It promotes deep relaxation, induces a feeling of profound peacefulness and allows the body and mind to move into stillness. It also soothes your central nervous system, leaving you feeling refreshed, rested, and calm.

Cushions, bolsters and yoga belts are used to support your body so that it can release without effort. When supported with props, the body relaxes and opens, releasing tension in the muscles and the mind. Done in sequence, a restorative yoga practice will bring your whole body into a relaxed state, and allow your mind to become quiet and reflective. Yoga nidra practices are often integrated into the class to support relaxation and bring balance to your whole system. Proven to reduce pain in fibromyalgia and chronic back pain, it can also help a variety of other chronic pain conditions. Always check the qualifications of your instructor and be sure to start of very slowly; one on one sessions are preferable simply as the instructor can teach completely aware of your needs and pace.

Restorative yoga turns on the healing relaxation response by combining gentle yoga poses with conscious breathing. Below you will learn four restorative yoga poses that may be practiced on their own or in a sequence and can bring great relief from chronic pain.

Each pose is meant to be held for longer than a few breaths; you can stay in a restorative pose for a few minutes or even longer. The stillness allows the body to drop even the deepest layers of tension. Because the poses use props to support your body, the right support in a pose will make it feel effortless, so your body can fully let go, unlike during more strenuous workouts that so often result in painful flare-ups.

Restorative/Therapeutic Yoga Sequence:



Nesting Pose

Nesting pose creates a sense of security and nurturing. It may also be a position you are comfortable sleeping in, making it an excellent posture to practice to help with insomnia or other difficulty sleeping.

Lie on your side, legs bent and drawn in toward your belly. Rest your head on a pillow, and place a pillow or a bolster between your knees. Rest your arms in whatever position feels most comfortable. If available, another bolster or pillow may be placed behind your back for an extra sense of support.

Rest in the natural rhythm of your breath, observing each inhalation and exhalation as it moves through the body. Take comfort in the simplicity and effortlessness of this action.

Supported Bound Angle Pose


This pose relaxes tension in the belly, chest, and shoulders that otherwise can restrict the breath. Lean a bolster on a block or other support (such as telephone books). Sit in front of the bolster with your legs in a diamond shape.

Place a pillow or a rolled blanket under each outer thigh and knee, making sure that the legs are fully supported without a deep stretch or strain in the knees, legs, or hips. Lean back onto the bolster so that you are supported from the lower back to the back of the head. Rest your arms wherever is most comfortable.

Now notice the whole front of your body relax and gently open as you inhale. Follow this sensation and feel the ease in the front of the body as you breathe.

Supported Backbend Pose

Supported backbend is a heart-opening pose that reinforces your desire to embrace life and not let challenges - including pain - separate you from life. This pose also works magic to release chronic tension in the back and shoulders.

Sitting, place a bolster or a stack of pillows or blankets under slightly bent knees. Place one folded pillow or rolled blanket or towel behind you; when you lie back, it should support the upper rib cage, not the lower back. If you need extra support underneath the lower rib cage and lower back, roll a small towel to support the natural curve of the spine. Place a rolled towel or a small blanket to support your head and neck at whatever height is most comfortable.

This pose improves the flow of the breath in the upper chest, rib cage, and belly. Allow yourself to feel this movement as you inhale and exhale. Imagine breathing in and out through your heart center. Visualize the movement of breath from your heart to your lungs as you inhale, and from the lungs back out through the heart center as you exhale.
Supported Forward Bend


This pose relaxes the hips and back, unraveling the stress of daily activities on the spine. Hugging a bolster and resting your head on its support provides a natural sense of security and comfort.

Sit cross-legged on the floor. Lean forward onto the support of a sofa, a chair, or a stack of pillows, blankets, or cushions. If you have a bolster, place one end in your lap and the other end on the sofa, the chair, or the stack of support. Rest your head on whatever support is available. If you are using the bolster, you can hug it in any way that feels comfortable, turning your head to the side. Be sure that whatever support you are using is high enough and sturdy enough to support you, without creating strain in the back or hips. If you feel a strong stretch that is uncomfortable to hold, you need more support.

In this pose, the belly, chest, and back all expand and contract with each breath. Feel the movement of the whole torso as you inhale and exhale. Feel your belly and chest gently press into the support of the bolster or pillows as you inhale. Let the sensation of your breath deepen the sensation of being hugged.

These simple relaxation practices will lead you on the path of ending your suffering. Yoga can teach you how to focus your mind to change your experience of physical pain. It can give you back the sense of safety, control, and courage that you need to move past your experience of chronic pain. For more on 'restorative' or 'therapeutic' yoga visit this blog post.

Soft/Meditative Martial Arts - Soft martial arts, such as Tai Chi and Chi Kung, are really moving meditations. Improving your posture, breathing and awareness, they are gentle and calming practices that have been shown to benefit patients with chronic pain and variable illnesses. Being of Taoist ilk, they hinge on the idea that everything is made up of energy, or chi (qi), and through practising tai chi or chi kung - even if bedridden and simply using chi kung meditative or breathing techniques - you can cultivate and store chi, leading to balance and healing, reducing flare-ups and calming an already over-stressed nervous system.

Tai Chi and Chi Kung move the blood, therefore they generate energy without much movement or stress on the body, so are ideal for individuals who have some health challenges and cannot do a lot of physical activity, such as aerobic exercise, or even walking. Chi Kung allows everyone who desires improvements in their body to do the movements standing up. sitting or even lying down; and the breathing techniques of Chi Kung allow oxygen to flow deep into the cells, tissues and organs of the body.

If you find it too painful to stand, Tai Chi in a Chair is a great book, click here or for Seated Taiji and Qigong click here. Alternatively, Seated Tai Chi for Arthritis DVD has great exercises. To begin to feel the chi or energy follow these gentle exercises for a beginner (see videos below); a more advanced but still wonderfully gentle exercise routine can be found here: 9 Minute Tai Chi Routine.

Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise one





Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise two



 
Pain Relief and recovery Tai Chi exercise three
 
http://taichi-europe.com/ Hi my name is John Hine, welcome to Hine Tai Chi. You will find a host of ways to learn Tai Chi and Chi Kung on this site.


The slow and gentle movements of tai chi also open up energy channels, and the rhythmic movements of the muscles, joints, and spine pump energy through the body, thereby flushing out the stagnated chi, replacing it with fresh, oxygenated chi. And Tai Chi can be performed in a sitting position, making it suitable for those in wheelchairs or who's balance is particularly impaired. To find out more about tai chi for people with disabilities, check out this article from Action Online, about tai chi in a chair - As a form of healing exercise, tai chi/chi kung is perfect for those with disabilities, chronic pain and physical limitations. Research has shown that tai chi provides all the benefits of a rigorous workout but, because it is not strenuous, it carries no potentially harmful side effects.

Osteopathy and Chiropractic Treatment - Though the root of the word 'osteopath' means 'bone', osteopaths do not actually treat bones. Rather, they use the bones as levers to improve the condition of other structures in the body like muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and organs. By treating these structures, osteopaths can aid the body’s natural healing ability. Chiropractors, on the other hand, tend to focus on the spine and the alignment of vertebrae as the primary means to relieving pain and tension throughout the body. The spine consists of the vertebrae, which are bone segments that protect the spinal cord, and the individual nerve branches stemming from it. These nerve branches exit between the bones, conveying important messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Because the vertebrae shift and move with everyday activity, they can misalign and interfere with the nerve messages travelling among them. This interference causes problems, and frequently pain, throughout the body.

Watsu Aqua Therapy - Watsu is a combination of massage and Shiatsu in warm, 34 degree water, giving a floating massage. This is my utter all-time favourite therapy. It is astonishing how healing Watsu is and on so many levels, helping physically as well as emotionally. With the therapist assisting your buoyancy (and a couple of floats attached), you float comfortably in a large pool of warm water while your muscles are massaged, your joints rotated & mobilized, meridians (energy pathways) stimulated. This combined stimulation and weightlessness produces and incredibly relaxing experience that many describe as being spiritual in nature. This beautifully relaxing and healing therapy can be used for treating stress, chronic back pain, orthopaedic problems, arthritis, sleep disorders, anxiety, CFS, CRPS/RSD, fibromyalgia and many other chronic pain conditions.

What makes Watsu unique is its ability to take the receiver beyond physical relaxation. It produces such deep relaxation that the mind appears to shut down – leaving silence where there is normally continuous activity and noise. It is only when the body and mind are quiet that you can experience complete release of tension. Another wonderful thing about being in warm water, aside from the obvious therapeutic benefits, is that the painful allodynia of RSD/CRPS is massively reduced, leading to much lower pain levels throughout the treatment, and healing benefits that last long afterwards. Watch this wonderful video for more information:



Watsu Aqua Therapy
Watsu Aqua Therapy, provided by Judy Fox - For more information, visit: http://www.watsuaquatherapy.co.uk Receiving Watsu was Jo McDonaldVideo by Anthony Carpendale - http://www.vimeo.com/antcarpendaleMusic by Ochre


Water Therapies ; Aqua Physiotherapy
There are many different water-based physical therapies that studies (and patients) have shown to be very effective with chronic pain and conditions such as fibromyalgia and CRPS. One interesting therapy is Ai Chi. Ai Chi is a water-based total body strengthening and relaxation progression that bridges East and West philosophies, and integrates mental, physical, and spiritual energy. It combines Tai-Chi and Qi Gong concepts with Watsu techniques, and is performed standing in shoulder-depth warm water using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs, and torso. All thermal aquatic bodywork takes advantage of the waters properties, fostering range of motion while challenging balance (safely) and facilitating core strength and stability. The series of movements in Ai Chi is simple, but effective and becomes meditative when performed repeatedly and coordinated with the breath. The philosophy and breathing in Ai Chi are similar to those of land-based Tai Chi, many of the benefits seen in Tai Chi are applicable to Ai Chi. Many of the Ai Chi benefits come from breathing and exercise, as well as effects related to the relaxed contemplative state.

Jun Konno, ATRIC, creator of Ai Chi, is one of Japan's foremost swimming and fitness consultants and the President of Aqua Dynamics Institute (Japanese chapter of AEA).
Since 1986, he has worked to promote aquatics in Japan and is Chairman of the Executive Committee for Japan's National Aquatic Conference. In the mid-1990s, Konno asked Ruth Sova, MS, president of the Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute and founder of the Aquatic Exercise Association, to help popularize Ai Chi Together with Konno, Sova undertook the project of spreading word about the program globally. They published Ai Chi: Balance, Harmony and Healing in 1999 and developed a certification program.

Read an informative article on Ai Chi here; also the following links talk about the benefits of aqua-based therapies for chronic pain and fibromyalgia:

About Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)
Potential Climate Benefits for fibromyalgia
Study: Effects of Pool-based Exercise in Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)
The Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Global Fibromyalgia Symptomatology
Vitamin D, Sunlight and Health
The Natural Healing Properties Of Marine Environments

Myofascal Release (MFR) - This is advanced body work designed to relieve or reduce pain, restore function and mobility. Working on the fascia or soft/connective tissue that has hardened through living with chronic pain. It is astonishingly healing and very gentle (always speak up if anything causes increased discomfort - this applies to all therapies and treatments). MFR brings about permanent change in the body, so results last longer than more conventional forms of massage treatments. Everyone can benefit from this kind of body work as, over the years, fascia can harden in various places around the body, only adding to your already high discomfort. Particularly helpful for fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Always check the credentials of your therapist. Play the following video for a comprehensive description of what MFR is and how it can help heal you, not just physically but emotionally too.



Myofascial Release in Brighton and Hove
Myofascial Release in Brighton and Hove. Steve and Jeanna demonstrate this effective advanced body work explaining how it differs from conventional massage.

Craniosacral Therapy - Craniosacral Therapy works on the spinal fluid and it a variation of osteopathic and chiropractic medicine, where a therapist gently places his/her hands atop your skull and feels for the oscillation frequency - the small degree of movement that the skull bones naturally retain throughout life. This is a subtle motion of the membrane encasing the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord down to the sacrum, the bone at the bottom of the spine. The therapist gently manipulates the bones to bring them back into proper alignment. It is said to improve the fluid movement in the systems throughout the body. By doing this, it can enhance many functions: the provision of nutrients to cells; the removal of toxins and waste products from the tissues; the circulation of immune cells; the delivery of fresh blood to organs and tissues; and the movement of cerebral spinal fluid.

It feels almost like a very gentle massage, but is a potent healing therapy for a wide variety of disorders, including chronic pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, learning disabilities, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, vertigo, whiplash injury, TMJ, herniated disc pain and musculoskeletal problems. While surprising and somewhat inexplicable, even many skeptics acknowledge that "sometimes it just works."

More Natural Ways to Ease Your Pain to Follow...
For videos and information on various complimentary therapies, follow theselinks:
Acupuncture
Osteopathy
Sports Massage
Hot Stone Massage
Hot Lava Shells Massage
Aromatherapy Massage
Indian Head Massage
Reflexology
Natural Facial
Thai Massage
Personal Yoga
Deep tissue Massage
Myofascial Release

http://www.theprincessinthetower.org/Natural-Ways-to-Ease-Pain.html