A recent Cochrane Review – the largest ever investigation into antidepressants used for chronic pain - shows insufficient evidence to determine how effective or harmful they may be. In this blog, principal investigator Professor Tamar Pincus explains the findings, and a clinician (Dr Peter Cole), a patient, and a researcher (Hollie Birkinshaw,) share their reflections.
Pain
Treating long-lasting low back pain without surgery: the latest evidence
We answer some questions you may have if you’re affected by pain and discomfort in your lower back which has no identifiable cause (it’s ‘non-specific’) and has lasted longer than 3 months (it’s ‘chronic’). On this page, we look at the potential benefits and harms of various non-invasive, non-surgical treatment options. The answers are based on the latest trustworthy evidence from Cochrane and NHS advice.
Painful nipples in breastfeeding women: what helps?
In a blog for breastfeeding women affected by painful nipples, and people supporting them, Sarah Chapman looks at the evidence behind various treatment options and the benefits of support.
Talking to GPs about endometriosis: Lara’s story
In a blog for GPs and for people seeking help from their GPs (especially those who have or may have endometriosis), Lara Cowpe reflects upon her experiences with GPs during her endometriosis journey.
Keyhole surgery for pain associated with endometriosis
In this blog for people considering surgery to treat pain associated with endometriosis, Dr Martin Hirsch, Consultant Gynaecologist, and Claire Barker, who had keyhole surgery for endometriosis in 2015, explore the benefits and risks and discuss important aspects to consider when thinking about undergoing surgery.
Managing chronic pain in adults: the latest evidence on psychological therapies
In this blog for people affected by chronic pain and those who support and work with them, Dr. Amanda C de C Williams discusses the findings of her team’s latest Cochrane Review on psychological therapies.
Pain in the prostate: can medicines help?
Robert Walton blogs the latest Cochrane evidence on drugs for treating chronic prostatitis
Skin-to-skin care: can it reduce procedural pain in neonates?
In a blog primarily for health professionals, Asda Abbas, a trainee paediatrician, looks at Cochrane evidence on skin to skin care and pain in neonates
Rub on pain products – what you need to know
Andrew Moore discusses the Cochrane evidence on topical painkiller creams, gels and rub on products in this blog originally published on The Conversation.
Relieve baby’s pain without drugs. Little things that help for a painful procedure
Little things you can do to help little ones when having a painful procedure.
Paracetamol: widely used and largely ineffective
Andrew Moore, author of over 200 systematic reviews, reveals the inconvenient truth about paracetamol
Can topical NSAIDs help relieve the pain of arthritis?
Lynda Ware explains the evidence behind advice to 'put some cream on it!', with topical NSAIDs shown to be helpful for arthritis pain