How effective is the PSYMEPHY program compared to standard pharmacologic care for fibromyalgia?

In 2012, the study conducted by Martín, et. al., aimed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a 6-week interdisciplinary treatment program for fibromyalgia (FM) called PSYMEPHY, which integrates psychological, medical, educational, and physiotherapeutic components. The research compared this comprehensive approach to standard pharmacologic care. The trial included 153 outpatients with FM from a hospital pain management unit, who were randomly assigned to either the experimental … Continue reading How effective is the PSYMEPHY program compared to standard pharmacologic care for fibromyalgia?

How effective is myofascial therapy for chronic tinnitus sufferers?

Tinnitus, the persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects millions of people worldwide, often accompanied by chronic pain in areas surrounding the ear. A recent breakthrough study suggests that myofascial trigger point deactivation might offer significant relief for those struggling with this debilitating condition. In 2012, a double-blind randomized clinical trial led by Carina Bezerra Rocha and Tanit Ganz Sanchez, 71 patients suffering from … Continue reading How effective is myofascial therapy for chronic tinnitus sufferers?

Does chiropractic maintenance care improve balance and reduce pain in the elderly?

In a recent pilot study, researchers delved into the effects of chiropractic care on balance, chronic pain, and associated dizziness among older adults with impaired balance. Led by Cheryl Hawk, Jerrilyn A. Cambron, and Mark T. Pfefer, (2009) the study aimed to gather preliminary insights into the efficacy of both limited and extended courses of chiropractic treatment. The study, which targeted a sample size of … Continue reading Does chiropractic maintenance care improve balance and reduce pain in the elderly?

Does integrating systematic graded exposure improve chronic pain management group outcomes?

In the realm of chronic pain management, systematic graded exposure in vivo (GEXP) has emerged as a promising intervention to alleviate pain-related fear and disability. While individual cases have demonstrated its efficacy, its effectiveness within broader clinical settings, particularly in group-based treatments, remains uncertain. In 2007 a study by Vida V. Bliokas and colleagues sought to ascertain whether the integration of GEXP into a multidisciplinary … Continue reading Does integrating systematic graded exposure improve chronic pain management group outcomes?

How effective are stretching exercises in alleviating pain in fibromyalgia patients?

In a recent study led by L. A. Matsutani and colleagues (2007), the effectiveness of a treatment regimen consisting of muscle stretching exercises, with or without laser therapy at tender points, was examined in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FM). The primary objective was to gauge the impact of these interventions on improving the quality of life for individuals with FM. The study, which involved twenty … Continue reading How effective are stretching exercises in alleviating pain in fibromyalgia patients?