Blog
"Exploring Deep Brain Stimulation for Chronic Low Back Pain: Promising Early Results and Future Prospects
Preliminary results from a first-in-human trial of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) targeting the subgenual cingulate cortex (SCC) for chronic low back pain show promising outcomes. The study, presented at the 2024 American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting, demonstrated significant pain reduction, a 95% decrease in opioid use, and a 90% improvement in disability for a patient with severe, refractory low back pain. DBS, which modulates brain circuits involved in pain perception, appears to be a viable option for those who have not benefited from traditional treatments like medications, physical therapy, or spinal cord stimulation. Despite these encouraging results, challenges remain regarding the generalizability of the treatment, its invasive nature, and the need for larger, multisite trials to fully establish its efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
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Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) Outperforms CBT in Reducing Chronic Pain: A Potential New Gold Standard?
A recent study suggests that Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) may be more effective than the widely used Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in reducing chronic pain. In the study, veterans who received EAET experienced greater pain relief and improvements in depression and anxiety compared to those who underwent CBT. EAET focuses on helping patients process and express emotions linked to past traumas, offering a different approach to pain management. While CBT has long been the go-to therapy for chronic pain, these findings hint that EAET could be a promising new option, especially for those who haven't found relief with traditional methods.
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Recovery from Thigh Injuries: Platelet-Poor Plasma Shows Promise Over Platelet-Rich Plasma
This study explored whether using platelet-poor plasma (PPP) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is better for helping people recover from acute thigh muscle injuries. The researchers treated 100 patients, aged 16 to 45, with either PPP or PRP and then monitored their recovery. They found that those treated with PPP returned to their sports activities about 23 days faster than those treated with PRP. Importantly, there was no difference in the rate of re-injury within a year between the two groups. The findings suggest that PPP could be a faster option for recovery without increasing the risk of getting injured again.
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Free Online Pain Management Program: LivePlanBe+
LivePlanBe+ is a free, self-paced online course designed to help individuals living with chronic pain improve their well-being. Through guided pain education and interactive learning experiences, participants gain practical tools and strategies to manage their pain effectively. The course is flexible, allowing users to learn at their own convenience, and aims to empower individuals by making small, impactful changes in their daily habits. Whether you are a person with chronic pain, a caregiver, or a healthcare provider, LivePlanBe+ offers valuable insights and techniques to enhance pain management and overall quality of life.
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Core Stabilization Exercises and McGill Big 3
Deep core stabilization involves engaging the pelvic floor muscles and transverse abdominis, which are crucial for supporting the pelvic organs and providing core stability. Diane Lee offers detailed guidance on activating these muscles on her website. Dr. Stuart McGill's "Big 3" core exercises include the modified curl-up, side plank, and bird-dog. The modified curl-up strengthens the abdominal muscles while maintaining a neutral spine, the side plank targets the Quadratus Lumborum and abdominal walls, and the bird-dog links the hips, lower back, upper back, and arms while keeping a neutral spine. An additional exercise, the front plank, engages the entire core. Consistently engaging these deep stabilizers during activities such as bending, leaning, or lifting helps prevent spinal strain and promotes overall core strength and stability.
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