Pain Archives

Coping with Arthritis in Your Hands

Jan 20, 2022 · Kate Brophy · Bones & Joints

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is often most noticeable when it affects the hands and fingers. Not only does it cause stiffness, swelling, and pain, it also can affect your grip strength, making simple everyday tasks—such as opening jars and turning keys—extremely difficult. But while … Read More

Shield Yourself from Shingles with Two Simple Shots

Jan 20, 2022 · Kate Brophy · Bones & Joints

First, you notice a slight discomfort in the skin on one side of your torso. Before long, the feeling has worsened to become a tingling, burning sensation that makes even the light pressure of clothing almost unbearable. These are telltale signs of shingles, a painful, blistering rash that about one … Read More

Shingles Is Worth a Shot

Jan 20, 2022 · Rosanne Leipzig, MD, PhD · Bones & Joints

In this month’s issue, we’re looking at how debilitating shingles can be if you develop it at an older age (see our page 5 article). I experienced its effects some years ago and it’s something I’d rather not repeat. Thanks to the very effective vaccine we now have against shingles, … Read More

Newsbriefs: Chronic pain; colorectal cancer; sleep; specialists

Jan 20, 2022 · Kate Brophy · Bones & Joints

CBT May Benefit Chronic Pain People suffering from chronic pain often take opioids and/or a class of anti-anxiety drugs called benzodiazepines. Both types of medications are associated with significant adverse side effects if they are used for long-term pain management. Researchers writing in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Nov. 2, … Read More

The Painful Journey of Kidney Stones

Dec 17, 2021 · UHN Staff · Bones & Joints

Kidneys are bean-shaped organs seated just below the ribcage. Their main job is to filter toxins and waste from urine. When urine levels of calcium, oxalate, cystine or phosphorus are too high, kidney stones can form. The stones can be as small as grains of sand and may not cause … Read More

Ask the Experts: Benefits of Tongue Scraping; Bunion Surgery: What’s Involved; Pelvic Prolapse Causes

Nov 24, 2021 · UHN Staff · Bones & Joints

Is it true that cleaning one’s tongue confers health benefits? There is some evidence that gently scraping or brushing your tongue as part of your daily oral hygiene routine can help eradicate bacteria that may contribute to tooth decay, gingivitis (gum disease) and bad breath. An interesting 2018 study also … Read More

Get Informed About the Risks of Cannabis Use

Nov 24, 2021 · Kate Brophy · Bones & Joints

Cannabis use by older adults is increasing sharply in the United States. Some are using cannabis to help them manage health problems, and purchasing it from licensed state dispensaries. Known as “medical marijuana,” this is a less potent form of the drug—however, it can interact with medications taken by older … Read More

FDA Approves New Migraine Medication

Nov 17, 2021 · UHN Staff · Bones & Joints

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the first oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist specifically designed for migraine prevention. The drug atogepant (Qulipta) was approved to prevent episodic migraine in adults. Similar drugs, in monoclonal antibody form, are injected, but atogepant is an oral medication taken … Read More

Gifts That Cushion, Comfort, and Assist

Nov 17, 2021 · Kristen N. Smith, PhD, RDN, LD · Bones & Joints

Everyone can use a helping hand every now and then. And that’s especially true if you have bone and joint pain. The following items can help you inside and outside the home. If you’re looking for useful and caring gifts, consider one of these for yourself and someone on your … Read More

News Briefs: December 2021

Nov 17, 2021 · UHN Staff · Bones & Joints

Clearing Chemo Brain with Exercise According to the National Cancer Institute, about 75% of people with breast cancer report having cognitive impairment during chemotherapy, often called “chemobrain” or “chemofog.” Symptoms can include confusion, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and a shortened attention span. These problems can last for many years after chemotherapy … Read More

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