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Pain Archive
Articles
Virtual reality for chronic pain relief
Virtual reality (VR) is being studied as a therapy for people with chronic pain. It immerses people in calming three-dimensional environments and uses principles of mindfulness, meditation, guided imagery, or cognitive behavioral therapy. It’s believed to help reduce chronic pain by decreasing stress, anxiety, depression, and fear, which all contribute to pain. It could also be that VR and its many stimuli simply distract your brain from receiving pain signals. VR for pain reduction isn’t widely available as of 2022.
Typing and tapping despite hand pain
Hand pain or stiffness makes computer or smartphone use difficult. Strategies to combat this include stretching the hands and fingers, avoiding awkward hand positions when holding a smartphone or computer mouse, taking breaks, alternating the fingers that do the work, and taking breaks. Using certain tools can also reduce hand strain or pain. Such tools include voice-to-text features, a wide-grip stylus, a smartphone holder, gel-filled wrist rests, and a comfortable mouse (which might be bigger, smaller, or vertical) to keep hands from stretching too wide or gripping too hard.
When the doctor becomes the patient: A transformative experience
A doctor’s serious health threat prompts reflection on the power of spirituality, the value of mindfulness practice, and acknowledgment of mortality as a motivator to reassess one’s priorities.
Stretching studios: Do you need what they offer?
If you have knee pain, telehealth may help
Got back pain? Can virtual reality provide real pain relief?
Chronic low back pain is a leading cause of long-lasting pain and disability worldwide. Treatment options help some people but not all, leaving millions seeking safe, effective treatment. An 8-week program using a virtual reality device aims to offers lasting relief, but valid questions about evidence of effectiveness have not yet been answered.
A single-session class offers chronic low back pain relief
Help for your aching back
Drug therapy needs time to treat heart-related chest pain
"Pandemic posture" hurting your back? You can fix it!
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