Pain Research, Stem Cells / 27.04.2026

regenerative-medicine-for-chronic-pain.jpg For a long time, the advice for chronic joint pain was always to pop some pills and, when they're no longer effective, commit to a total joint replacement. But no one can deny that the idea of permanent metal hardware and months of rehab is often just as scary as the pain itself. The medical scene in Chicago is changing. Instead of jumping straight to surgery, doctors are now using regenerative medicine to help the body heal itself. The rest of the world is on it too, with the global regenerative medicine market projected to skyrocket from USD $16 billion in 2023 to USD $49 billion by 2028.1
Orthopedics, Pain Research / 27.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73406" align="aligncenter" width="500"]recovery-after-scoliosis-surgery.jpg Pexels image[/caption] People spend months mentally preparing themselves for scoliosis surgery, but rarely consider the extent of recovery after scoliosis surgery. Healing can take the better part of a year, and it's a far more layered process than most patients expect. While most people understandably focus on the operation itself, the recovery process is just as consequential. Patients and parents worry about the pain, how long normal life will be on hold, and what "back to normal" entails. Setting realistic expectations about the physical healing, emotional adjustment, and day-to-day post-operation experience will make the process feel more manageable and a little less intimidating.
Chiropractic, Pain Research / 08.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73160" align="aligncenter" width="500"]chiropractic-care-for-pain-relief.jpg Photo by Kindel Media[/caption] The discomforts felt in your neck and back not only act as irritations but can end up affecting you productively, psychologically, and overall. In most cases, people opt for medication to help ease the pain, which, unfortunately, offers only quick fixes since there are underlying issues within the body that require long-lasting treatment. While conventional medicine focuses on synthetic solutions, chiropractic care uses the body's natural healing process to maintain the optimal functionality of your bones and nerves. When looking for a reputable austin chiropractor, it is crucial to find one who has comprehensive knowledge of spinal disorders. You should look for a chiropractor who will treat the condition holistically and offer more than just temporary relief. Chiropractors analyse how your bones and nerves work together and recommend treatments that help your body achieve optimal balance.
Orthopedics, Pain Research / 08.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73151" align="aligncenter" width="500"]evolution-knee-pain-rehab.jpg Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya[/caption] Musculoskeletal research has undergone a significant transformation over the last decade. Historically, patients presenting with chronic joint degeneration were often directed toward invasive surgical procedures or relied heavily on pharmacological interventions to mask their symptoms. Today, clinical paradigms have shifted profoundly toward conservative joint preservation. Recent updates in orthopaedic care emphasise managing osteoarthritis pain without relying on medication, noting that targeted physical therapy, weight management, and customised movement regimens can be truly transformative in preserving long-term joint function. This transition away from immediate surgery is not merely a passing medical trend but a rigorously validated approach supported by extensive clinical trials and peer-reviewed data. As the global population ages, researchers continue to explore robust pathways to delay or entirely prevent the need for joint replacements, focusing instead on sustainable biomechanical correction.
Pain Research / 05.04.2026

ashton-performing-treatment-at-specific-physiotherapy-preston_1.png Billy Gilhooley is a physiotherapist based in Melbourne and director of Specific Physiotherapy Preston. He takes a hands-on, targeted approach to treatment, focusing on identifying the exact cause of pain and helping patients achieve long-term results rather than short-term relief. If you’ve ever had something “fix” your pain… only for it to creep back in a few weeks later, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. A lot of people I see say the same thing — it felt better for a bit, then it slowly returned. Sometimes worse. Sometimes just enough to be annoying again. It’s incredibly common, especially with things like neck stiffness, lower back pain, or injuries that never quite seem to fully settle. And over time, it starts to feel like you’re just managing it rather than actually fixing it.

The cycle most people get stuck in

What usually happens looks something like this:
  • Something flares up
  • You rest it, stretch it, or get some treatment
  • It settles down
  • You get back to normal
  • Then it comes back again
That cycle can go on for months… sometimes years. The problem isn’t that nothing is working — it’s that the real cause hasn’t been properly addressed.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 24.03.2026

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72890" align="alignleft" width="195"]Dr. Jay Solgama Dr. Jay Solgama[/caption] Jay P. Solgama, MD Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The United States (U.S.) continues to face a severe opioid crisis, with nearly 80,000 opioid-related deaths reported in 2023. Prescription opioids play a central role in this epidemic, with a large proportion of misuse involving commonly prescribed pain relievers such as oxycodone. Prior research has shown that oxycodone (brand names OxyContin, Roxicodone, OxyIR, RoxyBond, and Percocet) is one of the most widely consumed and misused opioids in the U.S., with notable geographic variation in its distribution across states [1–3]. Against this backdrop, the present study aimed to comprehensively characterize oxycodone distribution across the U.S. from 2000 to 2023. Using three complementary data sources—the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Automation of Reports and Consolidated Orders System (ARCOS), Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data (M-SDUD), and the Medicare Part D Prescribers dataset (M-PDP)—we sought to evaluate national and state-level patterns, as well as identify strengths and weaknesses of each dataset [4,5]. The Medicaid program serves low-income and Medicare serves elderly patients.
Pain Research / 10.03.2026

Red Light Therapy for Pain Relief.png Key Takeaways
  • Red light therapy utilizes low-intensity red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity and relieve pain.
  • This therapy shows promise in addressing conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and acute muscle injuries.
  • RLT is considered safe, non-invasive, and carries minimal risk of side effects when proper protocols are followed.
Chronic pain is a challenging reality for millions of people worldwide, prompting a search for alternatives outside of conventional treatments. Among these emerging options, red light therapy (RLT) is a gentle, non-invasive approach that leverages specific wavelengths of light to support healing and effectively reduce pain. Whether you are dealing with muscle soreness, joint discomfort, or looking for innovative answers for chronic conditions, red light therapy for back pain Sandy UT is gaining recognition for its natural potential to help ease symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Red light therapy addresses pain by working at the cellular level, fueling the body’s ability to repair tissues and reduce inflammation. Unlike painkillers or invasive procedures, it targets the root cause of discomfort, helping cells to heal naturally. As the therapy becomes more popular, increasing scientific evidence supports its role in pain management, making it an attractive solution for those seeking safer, drug-free alternatives.
Occupational Health, Pain Research / 03.03.2026

Editor's note: This post provides background information only.  Please discuss any and all musculoskeletal and/or pain issues with your health care provider for specific medical advice. [caption id="attachment_72678" align="aligncenter" width="500"]sitting-at-work-back-pain.jpg Photo by fauxels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/top-view-photo-of-people-discussing-3182774/[/caption] Musculoskeletal Decline and the Productivity Crisis: Why Understanding Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis Matters for the UK Workforce  Recent Health and Safety Executive statistics indicate that work-related musculoskeletal disorders remain the most commonly reported cause of work-related ill health in the UK, accounting for over 6 million lost working days annually (HSE, 2023). Back, neck, and upper limb conditions dominate these figures. At a national level, the Office for National Statistics continues to report prolonged productivity stagnation, with output per hour showing limited sustained growth over the past decade. While productivity trends are multifactorial, the contribution of chronic physical impairment warrants closer attention. From a clinical perspective, when assessing occupational risk, distinguishing between metabolic bone disorders and degenerative joint diseases is essential. For example, understanding osteoporosis vs osteoarthritis helps clarify how systemic bone fragility differs from progressive joint degeneration, each carrying distinct long-term implications for work capacity. Globally, the Global Burden of Disease Study continues to identify low back pain as the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide (Vos et al., 2020). Taken together, these findings position musculoskeletal decline not only as a public health burden but also as a measurable contributor to workplace productivity loss across working-age populations.
Pain Research / 27.02.2026

Editors' note:  Don't self-diagnose sciatica, nerve or back pain.  See your health care provider before starting any exercise program to rule out more serious conditions. [caption id="attachment_72649" align="aligncenter" width="500"]sciatic-flare-ups.png Image by GMB Fitness on Pexels[/caption] Sciatica pain has a sneaky way of turning a simple stretch into a full-blown flare. One minute you feel tight, the next you are guarding every step. This is because sciatica is not just a short hamstring or a stiff back. It is often an irritated nerve that hates aggressive guessing. In addition, heat, dehydration, long drives, and hard workouts can all add fuel.  Flare-ups often come from stacking triggers, not one movement. So your goal should be to reduce irritation today and build resilience tomorrow without panicking or pushing through. Here are five mistakes people make when they try to stretch it away.

Stretching through nerve zing and calling it progress

If your symptoms spike during a stretch, you are not ‘opening things up.’ You are often tugging on an already angry nerve. This can ramp up sensitivity and keep the flare going for days.  Start with gentler options first: short walks, heat or ice based on what feels better, and positions that reduce symptoms. If you want guidance that matches your pattern, consider this specialized treatment of sciatica pain in Tempe, so you are not guessing with a sensitive nerve.
Pain Research / 28.01.2026

[caption id="attachment_72150" align="aligncenter" width="500"]latest-chronic-pain-relief-evidence.jpg Photo by Kindel Media[/caption] Improving outcomes for patients living with chronic pain starts with an understanding of the latest research. Historically, chronic pain was treated with procedures and medication that dealt with the symptoms of pain, believed to stem from tissue or nerve damage.  Recent studies show that chronic pain is complex and requires a much deeper knowledge and empathy for your patients, even when there is no clear evidence of damage. This is due to understanding discomfort as centralized pain, where the brain and spinal cord become overly sensitive to pain signals.  Chronic pain requires whole-person care that uses shared therapies for coping skills, emotional regulation, lifestyle adjustments, and minimally invasive treatments. This article reviews the latest evidence on chronic pain to support a more informed outlook toward your patients.
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pain Research, PT-Rehabilitation / 15.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71791" align="aligncenter" width="500"]common-elbow-conditions.jpg Freepix image[/caption] The elbow is arguably one of the most used joints in the body. It allows us to bend our arm, which means it is used for most daily activities. From scratching your noise to playing sports, your elbow is a necessity. This means that when something is wrong with your elbow, it can be extremely frustrating and seriously impact your quality of life. Unfortunately, it can be quite difficult to know which elbow condition you’re experiencing, as there are so many of them. Let’s take a look at some of the most common elbow ailments, to give you a better idea of what you might be dealing with.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is one of the most common elbow conditions. It arises from repetitive stress on the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the bone. Symptoms include pain on the outside of the elbow, pain that radiates from the elbow down to the back of the hand, and a weakened ability to grip objects. Fortunately, tennis elbow is extremely treatable. For minor cases, rest, icing the elbow,  and the use of over-the-counter pain relievers may be all that is necessary. If these are not enough, physical therapy and the use of corticosteroids may be used. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon.
Exercise - Fitness, Orthopedics, Pain Research / 10.12.2025

[caption id="attachment_71742" align="aligncenter" width="500"]q-brace-wraparound_bioskin Bioskin image[/caption] In today’s fast-moving world, people rely on innovative solutions that allow them to live, work, and move with confidence. Whether it’s supporting the body during recovery or protecting a building from unexpected emergencies, the right systems make all the difference. That’s why companies like BioSkin and RAEL Fire Protection have become essential in their industries. One focuses on human mobility and comfort, and the other safeguards the places where we live and work. Together, they highlight the importance of proactive protection at every level.

BioSkin: Empowering Movement Through Smarter Support

No one should have to choose between healing and staying active. BioSkin solves this challenge by creating orthopedic braces designed to move with the body instead of against it. Their medical-grade materials are soft, breathable, and engineered to provide targeted compression without the bulk found in traditional braces. People rely on BioSkin for many reasons:
  • Managing chronic pain or arthritis
  • Recovering from ligament injuries or sprains
  • Supporting weakened joints during daily activity
  • Post-surgical healing
  • Preventing re-injury during sports or training
Because of their slim profile and exceptional comfort, BioSkin braces can be worn all day, whether under clothing, at work, or during workouts. This freedom is what makes the brand stand out: support that doesn’t slow you down.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 05.11.2025

red-light-therapy-pain-relief.png Key Takeaways
  • Red light therapy utilizes low-intensity red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity and relieve pain.
  • This therapy shows promise in addressing conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and acute muscle injuries.
  • RLT is considered safe, non-invasive, and carries minimal risk of side effects when proper protocols are followed.
Chronic pain is a challenging reality for millions of people worldwide, prompting a search for alternatives outside of conventional treatments. Among these emerging options, red light therapy (RLT) is a gentle, non-invasive approach that leverages specific wavelengths of light to support healing and effectively reduce pain. Whether you are dealing with muscle soreness, joint discomfort, or looking for innovative answers for chronic conditions, red light therapy for back pain Sandy UT is gaining recognition for its natural potential to help ease symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Red light therapy addresses pain by working at the cellular level, fueling the body’s ability to repair tissues and reduce inflammation. Unlike painkillers or invasive procedures, it targets the root cause of discomfort, empowering cells to heal naturally. As the therapy becomes more popular, increasing scientific evidence supports its role in pain management, making it an attractive solution for those seeking safer, drug-free alternatives.
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pain Research / 02.10.2025

[caption id="attachment_70848" align="aligncenter" width="500"]alternatives-surgery-joint-pain Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya[/caption] Joint pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. Whether caused by arthritis, tendon injuries, or degenerative conditions, persistent joint pain can significantly impact quality of life. For many patients, surgery is considered a last resort - and the good news is that advances in non-surgical treatments are providing more effective options than ever before. In this article, we’ll explore some of the latest approaches to managing joint pain without surgery, and why patients are increasingly considering these treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.

Understanding the Burden of Joint Pain

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability globally, with knee and hip osteoarthritis alone affecting more than 300 million people. Beyond arthritis, conditions such as frozen shoulder, tendon injuries, and bursitis can cause long-term pain and loss of mobility. The traditional management plan has often involved a combination of lifestyle changes, pain medications, and physiotherapy, with surgery considered only after other measures fail. But not every patient is ready — or medically suited — for a joint replacement. This has created growing demand for alternatives that bridge the gap between conservative management and invasive surgery.
Author Interviews, Autism, OBGYNE, Pain Research, Pediatrics / 23.09.2025

[caption id="attachment_70749" align="alignleft" width="150"]Statement from Andrea Baccarelli, MD, PhDDean of the Faculty Professor of Environmental Health Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Dr. Baccarelli[/caption] Statement from Andrea Baccarelli, MD, PhD Dean of the Faculty Professor of Environmental Health Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Colleagues and I recently conducted a rigorous review, funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), of the potential risks of acetaminophen use during pregnancy. We reviewed 46 previously published human studies worldwide. We found evidence of an association between exposure to acetaminophen during pregnancy and increased incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. This association is strongest when acetaminophen is taken for four weeks or longer.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 11.09.2025

[caption id="attachment_70643" align="alignleft" width="200"]Rakesh Jain, MD, MPHClinical Professor at the Department of Psychiatry Texas Tech University School of Medicine- Permian Basin Midland, Texas Dr. Jain[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Rakesh Jain, MD, MPH Clinical Professor at the Department of Psychiatry Texas Tech University School of Medicine- Permian Basin Midland, Texas MedicalResearch.com: Would you briefly explain the condition of fibromyalgia?  Whom does it primarily affect and what are the symptoms? Response:  Fibromyalgia is the prototypical example of a type of pain called nociplastic pain, or pain that comes from altered pain processing in the central nervous system. It is mainly characterized by widespread pain, non-restorative sleep, fatigue and cognitive impairment (brain fog). Over 10 million adults in the United States are affected by this disease, most of whom are women.
Anemia, Author Interviews, Hematology, JAMA, Pain Research, Pediatrics / 03.09.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_70522" align="alignleft" width="150"]Ibrahim Gwarzo, DrPH, MPH, MBBSResearch Scientist at Nemours Children’s Health Delaware Valley, Delaware USA Dr. Gwarzo[/caption] Ibrahim Gwarzo, DrPH, MPH, MBBS Research Scientist at Nemours Children’s Health Delaware Valley, Delaware USA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you briefly explain the condition of sickle cell disease and why young people frequently present to the ER with severe pain? Response: Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells. It is passed down as an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning a person must inherit the defective gene from both parents to have the disease. The condition primarily impacts hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells, which leads to changes in the shape and stability of these cells. The complications associated with the disease, including recurrent and severe pain episodes, are a direct result of these changes. These pain episodes are debilitating and unpredictable, resulting in frequent emergency department visits where they are typically treated with pain medications, including opioids. It is estimated that around 100,000 people in the United States have sickle cell disease, with about 40,000 being children. The disease has a significant prevalence in the Afro-Latino population.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 16.08.2025

[caption id="attachment_70314" align="aligncenter" width="500"]neuropathy-future-regenerative-medicine Photo by Kindel Media[/caption] For decades, treating neuropathy has been an uphill battle. Patients have long relied on medications, pain management, and lifestyle changes to cope with the debilitating symptoms, numbness, tingling, burning pain, and muscle weakness, that come with nerve damage. While these approaches can provide relief, they rarely offer a path to true recovery. But the future of neuropathy treatment is shifting, thanks to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine. This innovative field is transforming what was once a lifelong condition into something far more hopeful: a condition that may be treatable at its root.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 14.08.2025

[caption id="attachment_70276" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Journavx-non-opioid-pain-medication Photo by Polina Tankilevitch[/caption] The FDA has now officially approved Journavx (generic name suzetrigine). This is a breakthrough non-narcotic pain medication that was developed to control pain, whether chronic pain, acute pain, or even cancer pain, without the addictive properties of traditional opioid medication. Touted as a safe option for patients with moderate to severe acute pain, this new pain drug is gaining attention for offering a non-opioid treatment option with minimal side effects and clinically proven results. In this article, we will break down what Journavx is, what makes it different from non-opioid pain meditation, and what its FDA approval means for the future of pain management. We will also explore its application for nerve blocks, how it compares with other medications, and the key clinical data that led to this decision.
Pain Research / 07.07.2025

[caption id="attachment_69370" align="aligncenter" width="500"]treatments_for_sciatica_and_lumbar_pain Unsplash image[/caption] Sciatica and lumbar pain continue to be among the most frequent causes of disability across the adult population. In 2020, approximately 619 million people worldwide suffered from low back pain. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects this figure to climb to 843 million by 2050. These conditions frequently stem from lifestyle choices, aging, injuries, or spinal degeneration. Symptoms vary from slight discomfort to intense pain that can extend down the leg, often accompanied by numbness or muscle weakness. Despite the variety of causes, the initial clinical response has often been the same. It starts with medication for pain, followed by imaging, and then consideration of invasive interventions for persistent cases. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that many patients may find long-lasting relief through non-invasive methods when care is applied appropriately. As a result, healthcare providers are taking a second look at these therapies, reevaluating their role in both early and ongoing management.
Accidents & Violence, Disability Research, Orthopedics, Pain Research / 17.06.2025

Accidents That Can Cause a Herniated Disc Back pain is more than just discomfort—it can completely change how you live, move, and even sleep. Among the many spinal injuries people suffer, a herniated disc is one of the most common and misunderstood. And in many cases, it's not caused by age or genetics—it's the result of sudden, forceful trauma. Nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock blends small-town charm with rapid suburban growth. With its scenic trails, active lifestyle, and expanding roadways, accidents—especially those involving the spine—are unfortunately not uncommon. Understanding your legal rights here is just as important as seeking medical care. If you believe your herniated disc was caused by someone else's negligence, don't ignore it. Getting help from an experienced professional like Casares Injury Law's Castle Rock herniated disc attorney could make all the difference in how your case is handled and how you recover. Let's break down the types of accidents that commonly lead to herniated disc injuries and why they can be so serious.
Author Interviews, Pain Research, Pharmacology / 09.06.2025

[caption id="attachment_68966" align="alignleft" width="200"]Prof. Alexander Binshtok PhDCecile and Seymour Alpert Professor in Pain Research Hebrew University’s Faculty of Medicine and Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC)  Dr. Binshtok[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Alexander Binshtok PhD Cecile and Seymour Alpert Professor in Pain Research Hebrew University’s Faculty of Medicine and Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC) MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is one of the world’s most commonly used pain relievers and fever reducers, yet for decades, its precise biological mechanism has remained something of a mystery. Traditionally, scientists believed its analgesic effect stemmed from central nervous system activity—specifically through the action of its metabolite, AM404, on cannabinoid and TRPV1 receptors in the brain.
Orthopedics, Pain Research / 22.05.2025

joint-tendon-pain Especially when it interferes with your ability to walk, run, or even comfortably stand, joint and tendon pain can be annoying. While slight discomfort usually goes away with rest or home care, prolonged pain could point to a more serious problem. See a Minneapolis foot and ankle doctor to get a professional assessment and treatment plan catered to your needs if you have been consistently uncomfortable in your lower limbs.
Cannabis, Epilepsy, Pain Research / 18.05.2025

Discuss your use of Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. Cannabis/CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues. CBD skin care products can be absorbed through the skin and have similar effects. Do not use Cannabis products including edibles and CBD if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant. Do not use cannabis products if driving or operating difficult or dangerous machinery. Children should not be exposed to cannabis or CBD products. [caption id="attachment_68597" align="aligncenter" width="500"]medical-marijuana-ohio-dispensaries Photo by RDNE Stock project[/caption] Ohio’s medical marijuana program offers qualifying patients safe, state-regulated access to cannabis products for symptom relief and improved quality of life. Established by House Bill 523 in 2016, the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program (OMMCP) began licensed sales at dispensaries on January 16, 2019, under strict rules designed to protect patients and ensure product safety. Patients receive physician-certified cards from the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, allowing them to purchase low-THC or high-CBD products in non-smoking forms—only edibles, oils, vapors, patches, tinctures, or plant matter. Qualifying Conditions To be eligible, patients must have at least one of the 21 state-approved conditions. The original qualifying conditions include:
  • Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS/HIV)
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
  • Cancer
  • Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Glaucoma
  • Hepatitis C
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • “Chronic and severe or intractable” pain
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Spinal cord disease or injury
  • Tourette’s syndrome
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Any other condition added by the State Medical Board of Ohio
Occupational Health, Pain Research / 15.05.2025

pain-sitting-at-desk Struggling with lower back pain is common, as most of you who are working office jobs and for more than 8 hours per day can probably relate, I’ve come to understand just how important it is to take proactive steps to protect your spine.  Sitting for prolonged periods without proper support or movement can slowly wreak havoc on your posture, muscle balance, and overall comfort.  This guide walks you through five practical and effective steps you can implement right now to help prevent back pain while sitting at your desk, whether you’re working from home or in a traditional office setting.

Get a Better Office Chair

When choosing an office chair for back pain, look for one that encourages good posture, offers solid lumbar support, and is fully adjustable to fit your body. A well-designed ergonomic chair supports the natural curve of your lower back, helping to prevent slouching and reduce pressure on your spine. The seat should be deep enough to support your thighs without cutting off circulation, while the armrests should let your arms rest comfortably, easing tension in your shoulders and neck. If you're unsure where to start there are plenty of helpful resources online that explain what to look for in an ergonomic chair.
Author Interviews, Pain Research / 14.05.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61470" align="alignleft" width="149"]Brian J. Piper, PhD Associate Professor of Neuroscience Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA 18411 Dr. Piper[/caption] Brian J. Piper, PhD Department of Medical Education Center for Pharmacy Innovation & Outcomes Geisinger College of Health Sciences Scranton, PA 18509   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Dr. Piper: Tapentadol has an unusual mechanism of action. This opioid is similar to morphine in that it activates mu, the main opiate receptor which is important for pain. This drug also acts similar to an antidepressant like duloxetine (Cymbalta) with equal ability to block both the norepinephrine and the serotonin transporters (Figure 1). The combination of opioid and monoaminergic activity may influence both therapeutic and side effect profiles. [caption id="attachment_68512" align="aligncenter" width="192"]Biological mechanism of action of the atypical opioid tapentadol Figure 1. Biological mechanism of action of the atypical opioid tapentadol involves binding to the mu opiate receptor, blocking the norepinephrine transporter (NET), and blocking the serotonin transporter (SERT) [1].[/caption]Tapentadol is approved in the US for moderate to severe acute pain, moderate to severe chronic pain, and neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, tapentadol is not generally considered first-line for any of these indications. Although this agent has a high potential for abuse and is classified as a Schedule II substance, a manufacturer of extended release tapentadol (Grunenthal) has conducted a misinformation campaign claiming tapentadol has a “minimum potential of abuse”, does not cause respiratory depression (a well-known opioid effect), does not cause any euphoric feelings, has no street value, and is not an opioid [2]. Prior pharmacoepidemiological studies have examined the use patterns of other prescription opioids that can be misused like oxycodone [3], fentanyl [4], meperidine [5] and methadone [6] but there is limited national information about the use of tapentadol.