Pain Management and Chronic Pain - Treatments

Chronic Pain From Head to Toe, and What to Do About It

A look at some of the most chronic pain conditions, and how you might want to treat them.

Vibration Therapy (and Other Exercise Options) for Fibromyalgia Patients

A promising therapy commonly used for sports training may bring relief to people with fibromyalgia.

What You Need to Know About NSAIDs Pain Relievers and Heart Disease Risk

Frequent use of this pain reliever may increase risk of heart disease and stroke in postmenopausal women. Find out more.

How to Manage Pain in Winter

Winter aches and pains putting your back, head, or joints out of joint? Here s how to deal with the discomfort, so you can feel good all season long.

12 Best Travel Tips for Arthritis

You've got places to go and people to see. Don't let arthritis aches, pains, and limitations get in your way.

Achy Feet? Orthotics Just Might Send That Pain Walking

Learn how over-the-counter or custom orthotics (such as shoe inserts or braces) may give your feet the support they need.

What You Need to Know About Chronic Pain Syndrome

Are aches your constant companion? You re not alone. Learn more about coping with chronic pain.

Treat Joint Pain With Arthroscopic Surgery

This minimally-invasive procedure can address acute and chronic join problems with desirable results and few complications.

6 Ways to Get Relief From Monster Headaches

Suffering from a head full of pain? These treatments will help you get back on your feet, fast.

You Can Live Well With a Musculoskeletal Disease

If you know how your bones, joints, and muscles operate, and what stops them from functioning properly, you'll be better able to treat your symptoms so you can live with less pain.

Comedian Matt Iseman Doesn t Let RA Stifle His Laughter

Rheumatoid arthritis doesn't define this funny guy. Learn how Matt is continuing to follow his dreams.

Got a Bad Back? Try Foundation Training

Foundation Training, a series of movements developed by a chiropractor, is an active approach that has helped many overcome back pain and get on with their lives.

5 Fibro-Friendly Benefits of Physical Therapy

Getting moving can help you beat the pain. Here's how to use physical therapy to your benefit.

The Latest Advances in Prostheses

The world's first thought-controlled bionic leg was recently revealed by the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Here's what that means for the future of artificial body parts.

Get the Facts About Frozen Shoulder

Shoulder pain shouldn't be ignored, especially if it limits your arm's mobility. Here's what you need to know.

6 DIY Massage Techniques

Relieve stress, reduce pain, and even improve your mood. If you lack the time or money to see a professional masseuse, here's how to reap the benefits of this therapy in the comfort of your own home.

Joint Replacement Surgery: An Unexpected Bonus

Failing hips and arthritic knees can take a toll on your love life. Replacement surgery puts the pain in the past and improves mobility, which translates into better sex, too.

The Gout Food Plan: 4 Foods to Avoid, 3 Foods to Eat

Have you been diagnosed with this rheumatic condition? Learn more about how you can manage gout with your diet.

Frozen Shoulder From Diabetes? How to Treat It

Nearly 20 percent of individuals with diabetes are affected by the painful, vexing condition adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder. Here's how to handle it.

Ouch! How to Handle a Paper Cut

It happens to everyone... and it hurts! Here's what to do when you or a loved one gets a paper cut.

Chiropractic Care: Benefits Beyond the Back

Spinal manipulation is a helpful element of ongoing pain treatment for many. Learn what to expect from your visit to the chiropractor.

Deal With the Dreaded Airplane Headache

While the logistics of air travel can be a pain in the neck, for some, flying can literally be a pain in the head.

Acupressure: Give Yourself Relief

You can easily access two pressure points used widely in this ancient form of healing.

Back Pain: The Hereditary Factor

Good posture may not be enough to save you from back pain. As it turns out, the physical condition of your back is far more dependent on genes than lifestyle.

Joint Aspiration for Arthritis Diagnosis and Treatment

The removal of fluid build-up in the joints may sound unpleasant, but it could help you manage your arthritis.

6 Ways Physical Therapy Can Help Arthritis

This form of treatment uses targeted, customized exercises to help restore motion and relieve pain.

How to Treat 5 Different Types of Migraines

Understanding what you're experiencing can help you find the appropriate treatment.

Back Stiffness: 7 Ways to Loosen Up

Do you often wake up with an aching back? Use these techniques to limber up.

How to Overcome Lupus Fog

For some, the most difficult part of coping with lupus is the way it hinders the ability to concentrate and focus.

Could Acupuncture Help MS?

While some find relief from this ancient form of Chinese medicine, more research is needed to determine its true benefits.

Osteoporosis-Related Pain: Causes and Treatment Options

Understanding the source of your discomfort is the first step in receiving the right treatment regimen.

Your Guide to Juvenile Arthritis

Arthritis doesn t just affect adults. Many children have this chronic condition, too.

Chelation Therapy for Arthritis: Get the Facts

Can a medical procedure used to treat heavy metal poisoning also help ease the pain of arthritis? That's the promise of chelation therapy.

Could Pine Bark Extract Help Treat Osteoarthritis Pain?

Are you familiar with this supplement, which may provide relief from osteoarthritis symptoms?

What Migraine Stage Are You Experiencing?

Learn the different stages of migraines and how you can better manage them.

The Weather: A Tricky Migraine Trigger

While you can t control Mother Nature, you can take charge of your weather-related migraines.

The Link Between Sugar and Osteoarthritis

Curb your sweet tooth, and you just may notice an improvement in your symptoms.

Could the Graston Technique Provide Relief?

This treatment option enables doctors to effectively target scar tissue that may be causing pain or limiting range of motion.

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Your head aches, your eyes hurt, and you're sneezing, coughing, and experiencing chills. Is it a bad cold, or could this be the start of the flu?

Knee Replacement: Your Pressing Questions, Answered

How long in the hospital? How long until recovered? How do they actually replace a knee? Get straightforward answers to these and other questions.

Hip Replacement: Your Pressing Questions, Answered

How is a hip replaced? What are symptoms after? What's the recovery time? Get straightforward answers to these and other questions.

How is Lupus Diagnosed?

The symptoms of lupus are similar to other diseases, and no two cases are alike making it difficult to diagnose.

Feng Shui Your Way to a Better Mood

Making small, inexpensive changes to your personal environment can go a long way toward improving your quality of life.

Prepare for and Manage Post-Surgical Pain

Some pain is to be expected, but some of the best doctor advice on how to handle it will come as a surprise.

Arthritis Is Not Just for the Elderly

It's important to know arthritis can strike at any age because early treatment is key.

Living With Invisible Pain

You look well. What are the challenges when you feel anything but on the inside?

Why Does His Lower Back Hurt?

Back pain affects nearly everyone at some point. And for men there are some particular causes and solutions.

After Joint Replacement Surgery

How long will you be in the hospital? When will mobility become easier? Here's a road map for recovery.

The 4 Best (and 7 Worst) Foods and Meds for Gout Patients

Find out what helps and what hurts when it comes to preventing gout.

Why Does the Body Feel Pain?

Pain is a communication system, but what is it trying to say? Focus on the different types of pain to uncover its secrets.

Is That Migraine Pain or Your Sinuses?

It can be hard to tell the difference between these two common conditions, but migraine headaches and sinus infections do have some hallmark signs.

Everyday Aches or Diagnosed Chronic Pain?

The rigors of daily living make the occasional ache commonplace. But when have you crossed the line to chronic pain?

8 Lupus Myths Debunked

Don't get bogged down in the fallacies about lupus. Get the facts here.

What's Causing Your Numbness?

Here's your rundown of common causes, including which ones are serious and which are just nuisances.

Pain Medication Addiction: Have You Crossed the Line?

This medication can be a blessing and a curse. Here's how to tell if you, or a loved one, have crossed the line into addiction.

Traumatic Brain Injury: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

It can result from a car accident or even a bad fall. Here's what you should know.

5 Lifestyle Changes for Coping With Chronic Pain

It's easy to think the power to improve is all in the pill, but it's also in the lifestyle changes that help you live well.

Back Pain Could Be a Sign of Depression

One startling example of the mind-body connection is the link between back pain and depression.

Painkillers and Kidney Cancer: What's the Connection?

Two studies reveal enough of a connection between kidney cancer and some popular painkillers that more questions are warranted.

Better Living With Fibromyalgia: 15 Tips

By taking care of your health on a daily basis, you ll be better equipped to live well with fibromyalgia.

10 Ways to Avoid a Gout Flare-Up

Follow these tips to prevent a painful bout with gout.

A Depression Treatment Now Used for Pain

Typically a treatment for patients suffering from depression, transcranial direct current stimulation shows benefits for those coping with chronic pain.

How Myofascial Release Could Relieve Your Pain

This form of massage combines the relaxation of yoga and the muscular benefits of physical therapy.

Lupus Fog: How to Cope

Officially called "cognitive dysfunction" or "cognitive impairment," many people living with lupus find this symptom the most difficult part.

Is Muscle Weakness Causing Your Pain?

Even when pain feels like it's in your bones or joints, the root cause might be located in your muscles.

Health by the Numbers: Migraines

Migraine pain can be excruciating, but with the right treatment, the condition can be controlled.

When Your Heartburn Outlasts Your Medication

Many different types of medications can be used to treat heartburn. But what works for one person may not work for another.

Health by the Numbers: Arthritis

Although arthritis can be debilitating, there are a variety of treatment options to help keep symptoms in check. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers.

Massage Therapy for Pain

How could this therapy help you manage your worst pain symptoms?

Exercises to Cure Your Neck Pain

While some exercises can cause your neck pain, performing these may remedy it.

Grow a Therapeutic Garden in Your Yard or Window Box

Boost your well-being with a fragrance garden. It's easy to grow therapeutic herbs and flowers with these tips.

The Truth About Spinal Decompression

From traction tables to decompression belts, this form of back pain relief has critics and supporters.

Why Do Headaches and Depression Go Together?

People who live with depression often also suffer from headaches. What's the link?

Minimalist Running Shoes: Best or Worst Choice?

"Barefoot" running shoes are gaining popularity. But do they benefit your body or cause more strain?

How Yoga Can Damage Your Body

While it's praised for its meditative approach to exercise, some experts are critical of the high incidence of injury.

Can Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Fix Your Back Pain?

If you have ongoing back pain, OMT offers a holistic approach to pain relief that addresses a variety of physical conditions.

Marijuana for Cancer Care

This drug seems to offer relief from pain, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and loss of appetite, which are common side effects of cancer and cancer treatments. And there are other possible benefits as well.

Don't Let Lupus Affect Your Love Life

For millions of people living with lupus, having a satisfying love life can be complicated. It doesn't have to mean life without one, however. Here's how to keep your the bedroom sizzling even if lupus is part of your life.

Painkiller Addiction: 6 Myths and the Real Facts

Painkillers are powerful medicines, but with them come the real risk of abuse. Understand the myths and determine how to use painkillers safely.

How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Can Treat Pain

Mind over matter: You've heard it so many times, it may seem meaningless. But new research shows how emotional therapy helps to make pain symptoms easier to bear.

Are Tender Point Exams a Thing of the Past?

Tender point exams have been the gold standard for diagnosing fibromyalgia. But could the process be flawed?

Can Talk Therapy Provide Pain Relief?

Typically thought of as a remedy for depression, some experts are studying the effects of talk therapy on chronic pain.

How Pets Can Help Your Chronic Pain Symptoms

Bringing a pet into your home is a big commitment, but it can come with serious rewards including a potential reduction of your pain.

What You're Wearing Could Cause You Pain

Pain often comes from the inside. But could items on your exterior contribute to your discomfort?

The Link Between Your Headaches and the Weather

Many headache sufferers swear there's a link between their pain and the weather. Now, studies are beginning to corroborate this belief.

The Risks of Long Term Over-the-Counter Painkiller Usage

If you live with chronic pain, you may need painkilling medications to help you make it through the day-to-day grind. However, if you rely too heavily on over-the-counter (OTC) medications, you may run the risk of developing long term and potentially deadly health risks.

How to Combat Pain-Related Depression

Chronic pain doesn't just affect your body but your emotions as well. In fact nearly 30 percent of pain patients suffer from depression.

How to Handle Tension Headaches

If you suffer from stress or tension headaches, find out what causes them and how you can prevent or effectively treat them.

What Your Muscle Pain Is Telling You

Typically when you have muscle pain it's equated to soreness from working out or maybe an injury. But what most don't consider is how muscle pain is often associated with chronic health conditions.

5 Ways to Avoid Cold Weather-Related Pain

Patients who experience joint, bone, and muscle pain really know what it means to be "under the weather." Many patients experience increased pain and stiffness during cold weather. But is there anything you can do about it? Read on to find out.

How to Use Epsom Salt for Health and Beauty

This drugstore staple is often overlooked in our search for the best health and beauty aids. But there are some good reasons to add this affordable compound to your shopping cart.

Are Your Glasses Causing Your Headaches?

Prescription glasses, over-the-counter reading glasses, and sunglasses may be contributing to your headaches. The good news is that there are clear solutions to solve this problem.

Can Migraines Be Prevented?

Once you recognize a migraine is on its way, is it possible to prevent it from taking hold? Read on it find out.

The Benefits of Strength Training for Chronic Pain

It's perfectly normal to be skeptical of lifting weights, especially if you never have or if you've always been told that you couldn't. Here, we outline how strength training can benefit those suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and common injuries.

Lose Weight and Reduce Pain: An Action Plan

Losing that excess weight and becoming active can reduce and even eliminate your pain. But how can you safely get started? Our plan will get you exercising at almost any weight and with nearly any condition.

The Link Between IBS and Fibromyalgia

Research shows that as many as 60 percent of IBS patients also have fibromyalgia and as many as 70 percent of fibromyalgia patients have IBS. So what s the connection? Get the answer here.

Menstrual Back Pain: How to Treat It Effectively

Unlike other types of muscular back pain, which go away and typically don't come back, menstrual back pain can be a frequent, unwelcome visitor.

Foods That Trigger and Relieve Migraines

If you live with frequent headaches or migraines, it's important to know what's causing them and what stops them. Sometimes it's all about what you eat.

Has Fibromyalgia Ruined Your Love Life?

The effects of fibromyalgia are far reaching and may even extend to your love life. But it doesn't have to ruin everything. We've got five tips for coping with fibro, so that you can enjoy your relationship.

Can Botox Treat Back Pain?

Can one of America's most popular cosmetic treatments provide powerful relief for chronic back pain? Many doctors and patients say, "yes." Here's what you need to know about back pain, Botox, and the beauty of pain relief.

Potential Risks of Common Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

While over-the-counter pain relievers are convenient and readily available, they still come with certain risks.

5 Everyday Mistakes That Cause Back Pain

Could little things you do every day be causing your back pain? They could if you're making these five common mistakes.

Is Physical Therapy Your Best Treatment Option?

When you need something fixed, you need the right person for the job. That's never more important than when it's your body that needs fixing. When the problem is related to movement, muscles, joints, pain in the musculoskeletal system, the right person might be a physical therapist.

5 Tips to Manage Lupus-Related Fatigue

Fatigue is one of lupus hallmark symptoms, but because the damage caused by Lupus is largely unseen, patients may be confused about why they re so tired. Read on for five tips that tackle fatigue caused by Lupus.

Positive Thinking and Medication Efficacy

New studies find that the power of positive thinking applies to how well pain medication works.

Could Your Back Pain Be the Result of Muscle Weakness?

Your back pain can be the result of a variety of causes; however, there is one that is often overlooked. Read on to find out if muscle weakness is what's causing your symptoms.

Return to Activity After Knee Surgery

How do you get back to your active lifestyle once you've had knee surgery? Step by step. Here's how to make the most of your "new knee" and regain your active lifestyle after surgery.

What's Causing Your Unexplained Joint Inflammation?

What does it mean when your joints get puffy and sore? If you've had an injury or accident, you know what caused it. But what if it comes out of nowhere? Here, our list for what causes unexplained joint inflammation.

7 Tips for Coping With Fibromyalgia-Related Fatigue

Don't let fibromyalgia rob you of the pep of a productive morning. These seven tips will help you give you the start you deserve.

The Facts about the FDA's Painkiller Abuse Strategy

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched a new risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) to combat widespread prescription painkiller abuse. How will it impact patients who take prescription medications for chronic pain? Get the facts here.

TMJ: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is a jaw disorder that at its most basic may cause minor pain and at its most involved may include myriad overlapping conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

Could the Alexander Technique Work for You?

Is it possible that your pain is caused by the way you walk and sit? If so, the Alexander Technique might be for you.

Don't Let Chronic Pain Result in Social Isolation

When it hurts to be active, it's hard to stay connected. Read on to break free from pain's captivity.

How to Manage Your Chronic Illness-Related Depression

Depression is one of the most common complications in people with chronic illness, occurring in up to one-third of chronically ill patients. Learn how to manage your symptoms with these tips.

Lead an Active Lifestyle? Give Your Ankles Proper Support

If you're a regular weekend warrior, it's essential that you give your ankles proper support. Let us sift through the myths and give you all the facts.

The Pros and Cons of Fentanyl Patches

Patients with chronic pain have many choices and decisions to make when it comes to pain management. One of them includes Fentanyl Transdermic Patches. While they can provide strong, effective relief, they're not right for all conditions.

Headaches During Exercise: Causes and Fixes

A lot of people think exercising is a headache, but for some people, it actually causes headaches. What causes exercise headaches and how can you stop them?

Could You Have Ankylosing Spondylitis?

For a disease that affects 2.4 million Americans, we don't hear enough about Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), a painful and potentially debilitating disease. Could you be one of the millions? Find out here.

Are Homeopathic Pain Treatments Right for You?

Homeopathic medicine is gaining recognition as a natural, safe and effective treatment for pain, but what exactly is it and how does it work? Could homeopathic pain treatments be right for you?

Caffeine and Headaches: Myths vs. Facts

Some people say caffeine gives them a headache. Others say it's the only thing that cures theirs. The truth about caffeine is somewhere in the middle. Here, we've sorted the myths from the facts about caffeine and headaches.

4 Pain-Friendly Outdoor Activities

Now that the sun is making an appearance, don't let pain keep you indoors. Indulge in these easy, pain-friendly, outdoor activities to let you enjoy your day in the sun.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: What's the Difference?

Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia are generally acknowledged to be two separate conditions, but some experts now believe they're actually part of the same underlying disorder.

Tune-In: The Healing Power of Music

The healing power of music has been well known for as long as men and women have played and enjoyed it. But does it really possess healing power for pain patients? Find out here.

Could Reflexology Remedy Your Symptoms?

Could the key to good health be all in your feet? According to patients and practitioners of reflexology, the remedy for many symptoms, illnesses and conditions is one touch away. Could reflexology help you?

Joint Resolution: Exercise and Arthritis

There are several ways to stay active without risking your joint health.

Does Spinal Manipulation Really Work?

Spinal manipulation has become a common treatment for many patients with chronic pain. In fact, as many as 60 percent of patients who see a traditional doctor for back pain will also see a chiropractor for spinal manipulation. But does it really work?

5 Bad Habits that Cause Back Pain

More often than not, back pain is caused by repeated irritation spurred by poor practices. You can prevent and reverse damage to your back by cleaning up these five bad habits.

The Link between Chronic Pain and Obesity

Chronic pain and obesity are epidemics in the United States and new research is shedding some light on why. A new study that obesity and pain are also linked to each other as well as other conditions.

4 Ways to Use Yoga for Back Pain

Among the best and safest ways to properly strengthen your back and keep your spine, ligaments, and muscles limber is by doing yoga. Now, studies show that using yoga to relieve back pain is safe and effective.

5 Exercises for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If the tingling, aching, and numbness of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is getting out of hand, five simple exercises might put relief right at your fingertips.

Is That Feeling Angina or Indigestion?

Learn the essential rule of thumb for knowing the difference between heartburn and heart trouble.

Do the Sexes Experience Fibromyalgia Differently?

While fibro affects people from all social statuses, races and ethnic groups, approximately 75-90 percent of fibromyalgia patients are women. But do men experience it differently? Find out here.

Running Through Pain: When is it OK?

Forget about that famous "runner's high." Serious runners will tell you: running hurts, at least at first. If you can't run away from the pain, should you run through it?

Could Pelvic Pain and Migraines Be Connected?

A recent study from the National Institutes of Health says many women who suffer from migraines also suffer with chronic pelvic pain. Is there a connection between what s going on upstairs and what s going on below the belt? Find out here.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Pain-Related Sleep Problems

Poor sleep and chronic pain often go hand-in-hand. While there are a variety of treatments to help you through the night, could Cognitive Behavioral Therapy be the best bet? Find out here.

Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease

How do you know if you have degenerative disc disease? If you have low back pain, are in your thirties or forties, and are otherwise healthy, you're a typical sufferer.

7 Tips to Control Your Mood When You're in Pain

Mood and pain are strongly connected. We've got tips for how to control mood when you're in pain.

How to Get Quick Relief for a Bulging Disk

Bulging disks can be painful and debilitating. If quick relief is what you're after, follow these tips.

4 Bad Exercises for Bad Knees

The best way to avoid and recover from knee injury is to keep the muscles and ligaments surrounding your body's largest joint strong and flexible. If you have "bad knees," be careful about the exercises you choose.

Can You Find Migraine Relief at the Dentist's Office?

Could eliminating your migraines be as easy as visiting your dentist? One dentist/physical therapist team in Scotland says, "yes," according to recent research and their unique drug-free approach.

10 Tell-Tale Signs of a Pinched Nerve

How do you know if you have a pinched nerve? Watch out for these signs.

Work Considerations and Fibro: What You Need to Think About

Learn more about how to balance your symptoms and work-life and when to consider disability.

The Link Between TMJ and Headaches

Read on for a TMJ primer and tips for how to alleviate TMJ-related headaches.

The Top 3 Topical Pain Relief Treatments

Is anything more soothing for sore muscles and tender joints than heat and massage? That s the attraction for most topical pain relief creams, but do any of them really work? With so many on the market, what s the best one to buy?

Realign and Remedy Your Body with this Therapeutic Experience

This intense therapeutic experience manipulates your fascia, the connective tissue around muscles, to restructure your physique.

How to Combat Thumb Arthritis

Why do some people get arthritis of the thumb and how can you manage this condition?

20 Tips for Controlling Fibromyalgia at Night

It's difficult to sleep because of pain, depression and anxiety and lack of sleep makes symptoms worse. What s the solution? We have twenty tips for getting the sleep you need when you have fibromyalgia.

Multiple Medications Danger Zone

Increases in accidental overdoses of over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs are one of the fastest-rising causes of accidental death in the U.S.

Cortisone Injections for Tendonitis: A Good Idea?

Most people experience almost immediate pain relief from cortisone shots. But does it really solve the problem that caused the pain in the first place?

Is the Cold Weather Making You Stiff?

If you're among those who can feel the weather in your bones via stiff, achy joints, here's what you need to know about what may (or may not) be causing it and what you can do to loosen up.

How Anxiety Affects Your Pain Symptoms

Many patients report pain several months or more after having surgery and scientists are developing clues as to why. Several studies have focused on understanding the interlinking roles of genetics, anxiety and pain.

Exercises for Back Pain: The Good and The Bad

Exercise is key to healing your current backache and preventing the next one. Some types of exercise, however, are bad news for backs. Others are just what the doctor ordered.

Vitamin D for Back Pain

Could taking a vitamin be the cure for your aching back? It might be if you are among the millions of Americans who are vitamin D deficient. Studies show that patients with chronic back pain, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are very frequently also low on vitamin D.

10 Ways to Prevent Joint Stress

If you have pain in your joints, hear popping or creaking sounds when you move, or feel stiff after sitting for a while, your joints may be under too much stress.

Palliative Cancer Care versus Hospice Cancer Care

You may be familiar with hospice, which supports people with life-limiting illnesses. However, you may not be as familiar with palliative care, a related concept that is invaluable to people with cancer or other serious illnesses.

Are You Suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Normally, when someone gets injured, time heals the wounds and pain goes away. But patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSD), don't heal that way. Instead, their pain gets worse instead of better and may even spread beyond the injured area.

Gender Roles in Pain Medication Abuse

New research has now determined that men and women misuse pain medication differently.

Preoperative Do's and Don'ts

Your surgeon will instruct you on a list of do s and don ts to help you get ready and minimize risks. Some surgeries have very specific instructions and your surgeon will make sure you know what to do. Many, however, include these general instructions.

Should You See an Orthopedic Surgeon?

How do you know if it's time to visit an orthopedic surgeon? Well, you may want to consider scheduling an appointment if you have pain that won't let up, diminished function, or any deformity of your musculoskeletal system.

Tai Chi for Fibromyalgia

Traditional medical doctors are now looking to ancient Chinese martial arts to help battle fibromyalgia. That s because new research shows that practicing Tai Chi can be a powerful way to conquer this mysterious and sometimes debilitating condition.

Exercise Safely for Back Pain Relief

What are the do's and don'ts for back pain exercises? We have ten tips that break them down, without breaking your back.

5 Daily Habits to Reduce Pain

If pain is part of your daily life, you're not alone and you're not helpless. Millions of people who suffer from arthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, back pain and other chronic pain conditions live with some level of pain every day.

The 4 Best Supplements for Fibromyalgia

There are many ways to approach chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. Many patients find relief with complimentary and alternative practices including Chinese herbal medicine and vitamin supplements.

Nerve Pain at Night

If nerve pain from diabetes is keeping you up, here's how to cope.

Can Meditation Reduce Pain Symptoms?

No longer considered a fringe practice, meditation has found its way into science labs and medical practice because of its proven results in reducing pain.

How to Soothe Your Child s Aches and Pains

It can be hard to determine if your child is attempting to delay lights out during bed time or if she is in serious pain. Read on to see when you should worry about your child's aches and pain.

What Your Back Pain is Telling You

Backache isn t a one-size-fits-all complaint. Its location, severity, how fast it comes on and how long it hangs around says a lot about its cause, its cure and your health. Read on for four types of backaches and what you should do about them.

Can Chiropractors Provide Relief for Back Pain?

Back pain is responsible for 65 percent of disability claims and is a leading cause for missed work and school days. While most people head to their family practice doctor for back pain relief, they might have better results with a chiropractor.

Unlocking a Mystery: Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects about one out of 50 people, with women much more susceptible than men. The main symptom of fibromyalgia is a widespread dull ache affecting multiple spots on the body, typically muscular in nature. Here, learn more about this condition.

Does a Loved One Have a Painkiller Addiction?

Over time, it takes more and more medication to ease the pain and not all the pain is necessarily physical. What do you do when a loved one has a painkiller addiction?

Understanding Breakthrough Pain

Millions of Americans live with constant pain. But what if pain suddenly gets worse, your pain medication wears off too soon or you do something that aggravates your pain condition? That s called breakthrough pain.

Could Vitamin D Reduce Your Pain?

Could taking your vitamins ease your pain? It might if you re deficient in Vitamin D.

4 Common Age-Related Pains

While most people of a certain age are healthy and living full, productive lives, growing older often comes with a few aches and pains. Not surprisingly, many older adults go through the same changes.

4 Causes of Headaches and Natural Remedies

What can you do to relieve your headache besides hit the medicine bottle? We ve got four natural headache remedies that will knock out your headaches right now and help prevent them in the future.

The Link between Pain Relievers and Heart Disease

Pain relievers are linked to increased risk factors for heart disease.

When Pain Interferes With Your Sex Life

Millions of adults with chronic pain may be avoiding sex because of it.

Foods that Trigger Migraines

Certain foods pull the trigger that leads to crippling headaches.

The Link between Your Posture and Your Headaches

I have treated many patients with migraine headaches who suffered for years because a proper diagnosis was never made. Migraine headaches are difficult to establish a cause for because there are many possible causes.

Will Bowen Therapy Work for You?

Bowen Therapy, like massage, acupressure and chiropractic techniques is based on the belief that the body can heal itself.

Lifestyle Changes for Sciatica

Changing your lifestyle habits could make a difference in whether or not you experience sciatica.

How to Prevent Post-Surgical Pain

By taking the right preemptive steps, you don t have to endure severe pain after surgery.

Gastroparesis 101

Gastroparesis, also known as delayed gastric emptying, is a stomach disorder. Find out the causes, symptoms, and signs and what you can do to treat it.

Could You Benefit from a Pain Clinic?

Rather than living with the discomfort of pain, you should consider visiting a pain clinic.

What is Tinnitus and How to Treat It

If you are struggling with tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, there are a range of treatments to consider.

How to Establish the Cause of Functional Pain

Experiencing functional pain? If so, look to the muscle for establishing the cause.

7 Steps for Strengthening Your Back

While back pain and injury is prevalent among Americans, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

How Strengthening Your Hips Will Prevent Back Pain

When some one has pain on one side of the lower back, it's not uncommon to find either gluteus medius is weak causing the lower back muscle to strain.

5 Rare Pain Disorders

Suffering from a rare pain disorder not only affects your physical health, but also your mental health.

Bioelectric Therapy for Pain

Bioelectric therapy is a safe, drug-free treatment option for people in pain.

At-Home Exercises for Pain Management

There is evidence that exercise may be one of the best things you can do to manage chronic pain.

8 Pain Pill Mistakes

Misuse of pain pills can result in a wide variety of health issues, including death.

Common Painkillers Might Make You Hard of Hearing

A new study in men hints that popping over-the-counter painkillers regularly can also lead to hearing loss, especially in younger men.

Medical Pot May Help Fibromyalgia Pain

Research shows that marijuana may relieve symptoms of fibromyalgia.

4 Ways Yoga Relieves Lower Back Pain

Yoga helps people with chronic lower back pain ease their pain more than conventional treatment alone, according to a study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

TENS: Does It Work?

TENS therapy is a method of pain relief that might be the answer for you.

How to Remedy Trigger Finger

It seems that trigger finger is not the most common of injuries that people experience, but when it occurs, it is a real nuisance. It affects your ability to grab objects and can be very painful.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain

Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be an effective way to treat chronic pain.

Marijuana for Pain Relief

Recent study confirms pain relief benefits of marijuana.

How to Decide if Surgery Can Solve Your Low Back Pain

While there are many back surgery success stories, surgeons advise that the decision for surgery should not be rushed.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Think Muscle Not Nerve

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most misdiagnosed syndromes.

How to Control Cancer Pain

Pain management is an integral part of cancer treatment, so it's important to tell your doctor if you're in pain or if your discomfort changes.

Managing Side Effects of Narcotic Painkillers

While narcotic painkillers may bring you temporary relief from pain, they may bring you some other challenges due to their side effects.

How to Properly Treat Tennis Elbow

When an individual gets pain at the elbow, frequently the diagnosis is tennis elbow. This condition is considered to be the result of irritation of the tendons from the muscles that extend the wrist and fingers found on the top of the forearm.

The Truth About Biofeedback for Pain

Biofeedback, a non-invasive form of treatment, has been shown to effectively help a variety of disorders from headaches to high blood pressure.

Understanding How a Muscle in Pain Works

Understanding how muscle works can help to understand how muscle can affect pain.

Can Acupuncture Ease Back Pain?

In a study last year by the National Institutes of Health, acupuncture helped ease chronic lower back pain in a majority of participants.

Joint Pain and Structural Abnormalities

Does one always mean the other? Chances are that the answer is "no".

Should You Have Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Most people with carpal tunnel syndrome experience effective treatment with non-surgical methods, however if your symptoms are severe, long-lasting, and not responding to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be the right choice for you.

Worrisome Neck Pain Symptoms

While chronic neck pain caused by mental and emotional stress is a modern American epidemic, there are some neck pain symptoms that are slightly more worrisome and may indicate a more serious problem.

Is Your Pain Caused By Structural or Muscular Abnormalities?

Physical therapist Mitchell Yass discusses the differences between structural and muscular causes of pain and how they should be treated.

What You Need to Know about Epidural Spinal Injections

An epidural spinal injection, also known as an epidural steroid injection, is a non-surgical treatment for radiating back pain that may provide either short- or long-term relief, anywhere from a week to several months. However, as with all procedures, it comes with some associated risks.

Is Spinal Decompression the Answer for Herniated Discs?

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment method used for patients with back pain and other problems associated with spinal-disc injuries, such as herniated discs. While it may provide some of the pain relief you seek, it is just one part of an overall back pain relief and recovery strategy.

Strengthen the "Core" for Back Pain? Think Again

There is a widely held belief that strengthening the core muscles is key to resolving lower back pain. The number of patients who have told me they were treated based on this premise at other therapy facilities before obtaining treatment with me is staggering.

Pros and Cons of Using a Back Brace

The use of a back brace can be helpful for some people for a short period of time. But using a brace long-term or for preventative reasons may land you in the situation that you were trying to avoid. Learn about the pros and cons of using a back brace.

What are the advantages of strength-training and flexibility training in treating/preventing back and joint pain?

Physical therapist Mitchell Yass answers readers' questions about back pain in our exclusive weekly series.

What are the best treatment options for a herniated disc?

Orthopedic and spinal surgeon Dr. Sean McCance answers a reader's question about herniated discs.

Back Pain and PMS

Back pain is one of the more common symptoms of PMS, and can range from a small ache to debilitating pain.

Better Health Results in a Better Sex Life

Good health ups the odds that you and your partner will have a better time in bed.

Innocent Behaviors That Lead to Death

Innocent behaviors such as social drinking, dieting, and relieving back pain through a doctor-prescribed medication can unsuspectingly be a gateway to harmful behavior for some people and ultimately death.

Understanding Referred Pain and Phantom Pain

The cause of chronic pain is not always obvious. In the case of a type of chronic pain, known as referred pain, the patient perceives pain in one part of the body, but the source of pain is elsewhere in the body. With phantom pain, the patient perceives pain in a body part that s no longer even there.

Is Headache Medicine Always the Best Treatment?

Health professionals advise being cautious about the overuse of headache medication as this can result in making the headaches worse.

Facial Surgery May Offer Migraine Cure

A study last year suggests that facial surgery that targets and removes small portions of migraine-triggering muscle or nerve tissue may offer permanent relief for some people suffering from migraines.

Trigger Point Therapy for Chronic Pain

Trigger point therapy may be a good option in treating chronic pain in some patients.

How Real is Painkiller Addiction?

Experts agree that prescription painkiller medication addiction is real, and the risk for some can be great.

How to Prevent Total Hip Replacement

A look into how the medical standards for assessing hip pain can fall short.

The Difference between Arthritis and Lupus

Learn how to work with your doctor to get a correct diagnosis.

Share Your Story. Become a Health Hero.

Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you!

Heel Spur or Plantar Fasciitis

If you are suffering from pain at the bottom of your heel, you will probably see a podiatrist who will probably take an x-ray and inform you that you have a heel spur.

Know Your Alternatives for Pain Resolution

Indicators show that many common medical practices are failing when it comes to identifying the cause of pain and resolving it. The number of people complaining of chronic pain has jumped to 83 million in the US and is expected to hit 150 million in the next few years.

Is Sciatica Caused by Herniated Discs?

Forty million people are estimated to suffer from sciatica. But is there a misconception about its cause?

Chronic Pain vs. Acute Pain

Find out why chronic pain is typically misdiagnosed as acute pain.

Alternative Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Alternative treatments that help to relieve carpal tunnel syndrome.

Migraines and Heart Problems: What's the Link?

Migraines may be linked to an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke.

Side Effects of 3 of the Most Common Painkillers

Popular painkillers acetaminophen, ibuprofen and codeine may provide relief but they can also cause serious side effects.

Neck Pain and Posture

You'd be surprised by the cause of your pain.

Fibromyalgia and Depression

Suffering from fibromyalgia? Learn more about the risks of depression and what you can do to protect yourself from this mood disorder.

Pain: Treat the Cause, Not the Symptom

Taking narcotic pain killers, epidural nerve blocks or cortisone shots do nothing to resolve the cause of pain. It is a feudal attempt to mask pain.

Lupus and Nerve Damage

Lupus can cause neuropathy, also known as nerve damage. Learn about the symptoms, prevention and coping strategies you can use.

Treatment Options for Inguinal Hernia

Learn what causes an inguinal hernia and the best treatment options for this common health problem.

Knee Plug for Osteoarthritis

For 30 million osteoarthritis sufferers worldwide, pain, joint stiffness and potential loss of mobility can negatively affect their quality of life. However, scientists have recently improved a widely used treatment for knee osteoarthritis, which may help many people.

The Dangers of Concussions

Scientists discover that concussions can damage brain tissue and impair brain function. Find out more about these common injuries, prevention and treatment.

Knee Ligament Injury Recovery

A primer on ligament injury the causes, symptoms, treatment and recovery.

5 Tests for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common, but very treatable, condition. This article reveals the causes, tests and treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome.

When Pain and Fatigue Are Ruining Your Life

Pain and fatigue are symptoms commonly associated with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis. These strategies can reduce your discomfort and improve your quality of life.

Coping with Common Lupus Symptoms and Treatments

Three of the most common lupus symptoms are skin rashes, joint pain and stiffness and muscle pain. Learn about effective ways to cope with them.

Pinched Nerve Treatment and Relief

How to relieve and treat a pinched nerve.

Expert Q&A: Treatment Options for Herniated Discs

Orthopedic and spinal surgeon Dr. Sean McCance answers a reader's question about herniated discs.

Sports Injury or Sports Hernia?

Sports hernia, an increasingly common type of sports injury, can cause chronic pain and loss of function. Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment of a sports hernia.

10 Ways to Ease Night Pain

Is night pain ruining your after-work activities and sleep? Here, ten ways to relieve it.

Vitamin D for Fibromyalgia Pain

Research suggests that vitamin D may play a role in fibromyalgia pain and other chronic pain conditions.

Fibromyalgia: Natural and Alternative Treatment

Natural and alternative treatments for fibromyalgia can be effective.

Migraine Myths

When it comes to migraines, it can be difficult separating fact from fiction. Get the real story on the disease's biggest misconceptions.

Should You Have Hip Replacement Surgery?

Find out if you could be a candidate for hip replacement surgery, and learn more about the procedure.

Understanding Migraines

Millions of Americans are affected by migraines. Here, a look at this common neurological disease, from symptoms to treatment.

Relieving Diabetic Nerve Pain at Home

The top 8 ways to treat diabetic neuropathy pain at home.

Heartburn: When Is It Time to See the Doctor?

Read on determine when your condition requires medical attention.

Tips to Ease Medication-Induced Heartburn

Follow these steps to help find relief.

Does Acupuncture Relieve Arthritis?

Find out why acupuncture is growing in popularity with arthritis sufferers.

Three Ways to Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares

If you re one of the 1.3 million Americans living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you know that flares are a part of the disease.

Help Kids with Juvenile Arthritis Get Up and Go

If your child is one of the many who suffers from juvenile arthritis today, did you know that helping him stay active can be an important part of managing his condition?

Can a Scottish Mineral Water Alleviate Arthritis?

It may sound more like a fantasy than a reality, but some believe that this water can help ease arthritic pain.

Heart Disease: Common Misdiagnosis

These conditions often have the same symptoms of heart attacks.

Best Stretches for Arthritic Knees

When rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis targets your knees even routine activities such as walking, bending, or sitting can be challenging. These conditions make joints stiff and painful, and limit your mobility. They also weaken and tighten your muscles.

Hydrotherapy Help for Arthritis

The healing power of water is no secret. From the hot springs in ancient Greece to the cleansing power of the Ganges in India, water is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties. Many people with arthritis are discovering it s true.

Natural Remedies for Pain Management

Looking to ditch the prescription meds and go natural? Learn more about some methods, endorsed by the National Pain Foundation.

Panic Disorder and Heart Health

See how this disorder that affects 6 million Americans can be a burden to your heart.

Common Arthritis Surgeries

If you have arthritis, knowing about the common surgeries is crucial.

3 Breakthrough Treatments for Arthritis

Here are three medical advances you should know about.

Herbal Remedies for Arthritis

Find out how the treatment for your arthritis can be all natural.

10 Questions You Should Ask Before Your Arthritis Surgery

Asking these questions can give you the vital information you need.

An Overview of Common Arthritis Medications

Be in the know when it comes to arthritis medication.

Understanding Ear Infections

Ear infections are very common in children. Here, a guide to their symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Bladder Leakage: Why the Embarrassment?

As common as the condition is, many women insist on keeping quiet about it. Here, we explore the reasons why.

Coping With Arthritis on the Job

Working and arthritis can be challenging, but these tips can help make it easier.

Understanding Exercise-Induced Asthma

Millions of Americans are living with exercise-induced asthma. Here, a guide to the condition, from symptoms to treatment.

Gout: 3 Risk Factors and 10 Foods to Avoid

This painful arthritic condition affects approximately eight out of every 1,000 Americans. Learn about symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Understanding Hip Pain

Hip pain is an increasingly common phenomenon that tends to occur with age. Find out what causes hip pain and what you can do about it.

Understanding IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome affects up to 20 percent of the U.S. adult population, and the disorder has no known cause. Here, a look at IBS, from symptoms to treatment.

The Benefits of Breast Reduction

From chronic back pain to poor self-esteem, large breasts can present a host of health problems. Find out whether surgery could ease your discomfort.

Understanding Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. Here, a guide for patients and their loved ones.

6 Shape-Up Secrets for Fitness-Phobes

Even the biggest couch potatoes can learn to love exercise.
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