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PAIN MONITOR
June 2008
The Pain Monitor is a monthly electronic publication of the American Pain Foundation. We want to keep you abreast of recent media attention given to topics that are related to pain care or living with pain. Below are links to news articles, feature stories and timely information that have come to our attention. Please pass them along to others who might benefit. We encourage you to send any comments you may have to the authors or publisher directly. Every voice counts when working towards improving pain care in our nation.
THE NEWS
 FDA Approves Amitiza for IBS-C
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Amitiza (lubiprostone) for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in adult women aged 18 and over. There is currently no prescription drug therapy for IBS-C. With this approval, Amitiza becomes the only FDA-approved medical treatment for IBS-C available in the United States.
FDA Safety Alert: How to Use Fentora Safely
Fentora is a potent opioid analgesic (C-II) indicated for the management of breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are tolerant to round-the-clock opioid therapy for persistent cancer pain.
Leading Pain Organizations’ Support of Fibromyalgia Community Recognized Through Charitable Donation Program
The American Chronic Pain Association, American Pain Foundation and National Pain Foundation are pleased to announce that in recognition of Fibromyalgia Awareness Day and the support they provide to millions of people affected by chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, Pfizer is providing a charitable donation to support their educational activities and advocacy efforts.
Pain a Part of Daily Life for One in Four
More than a quarter of all Americans are in pain at any given time during the day, particularly those with lower income and less education, researchers said.
 Low Vitamin D Tied to Back Pain in Older Women
Older women who aren't getting enough vitamin D appear to be at risk for suffering from back pain, new research shows.
Study Shows Many Diabetics Also Have Arthritis
More than half of adult diabetics in the U.S. also have arthritis, which causes joint pain that may prevent the exercise they need to stay healthy, a study found.
Social Support, Active Coping Ease Chronic Pain
Chronic pain patients who are satisfied with their level of social support are less depressed and more likely to take active steps to cope with their pain, Spanish researchers report.
Counseling Could Help Relieve Chronic Pain
Counseling can provide safe, non-medication methods that can help treat pain directly by reducing high levels of physiological stress that often aggravates pain. Psychological treatment also helps improve the indirect consequences of pain by teaching coping skills for the many problems associated with pain.
New Thinking on Whether Adult Pain Stems from Childhood Trauma
Do you think you’re sick today because of trauma you suffered during childhood? Or does the very idea of that get your blood boiling because it ties fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS) to psychological causes? According to an address a the American Pain Society’s annual meeting, it depends on the type of trauma.
 Chili Peppers to Block Pain
Scientists have been able to block the pain and numb feeling that lingers long in the gums after a visit to the dentist - thanks to chili peppers.
Chronic Pain Meds Unlikely to Cause Addiction
The general population and many in the medical community alike harbor the popular opinion that using strong pain medications, including opioids, for long-term, chronic pain puts the patient at high risk of developing an addiction to the pain medications. A report presented recently at the annual meeting of the American Pain Society (APS) reveals evidence to the contrary.
Medication Shows Promise for Patients with Severe Chronic Constipation
A new medication appears to offer significant relief to patients with severe chronic constipation while minimizing the likelihood of cardiac-related side effects.
"Virtual Massage" Can Relieve Amputees' Phantom Limb Pain
Amputees who experience phantom limb pain could find relief in a surprisingly simple way - by paying more attention to the people around them. Watch the YouTube Video.
 Women's Health: Help for Intimate Pain
Chronic pelvic pain affects 1 in 7 women and is notoriously difficult to heal. New treatments are bringing hope, and genuine relief.
Chronic Pain and Sex: a Couple's Gentle Battle With Fibromyalgia
Chronic pain and intimacy need not preclude each other. Cynthia Armistead, 41, is in nearly constant full-body pain. She has fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and severe arthritis. But she has not given up on joy.
Blood, Guts and a Beautiful Exhibition of Externalizing Innards
Christa Donner feels your pain. As a visual artist who experiences chronic pain, she dedicates her time to working with people in expressing their own pain and body issues in a visually stimulating way.
Video Games: So Much Fun, It Hurts?
Playing violent games can lead to chronic pain.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
 Common Drug Eases Leg Pain From Walking
Patients who took the typical 200-milligram dose of naftidrofuryl (which relaxes blood vessels) three times a day for six months could walk about 40 percent farther without pain than those who took a placebo.
Moderate Drinking May Lower Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Two Scandinavian studies indicate that moderate alcohol consumption may lower the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
APF NEWS
 Derek McGinnis has joined APF as Amputee Outreach Program Coordinator for the Military and Veterans Initiative. Derek is Veteran of OIF where he served in the Navy as a Corpsman until he was wounded in November of 2004 in Fallujah. Derek was most recently employed as a Program Support Assistant at the VA in Palo Alto, California. He has a BS in Health Care Administration and is pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work in the fall. Derek is a runner, swimmer and tri-athlete. Click here to see an article which features Derek. Watch the video.
 New Health.com Website Provides Comprehensive Information on Chronic Pain
APF’s POP Action Network Leader for Missouri, Rebecca Rengo, and Pain Advisory Community Council Member and APF Board Member, Andrea Cooper, both trained advocates, were interviewed by Time, Inc. about their experiences living with fibromyalgia. These interviews are available on the new Health.com website. For their interviews, click here. You will also find an interview with Dr. Russell Portenoy, APF Board Member. Click here to view the section of the website targeting chronic pain. Go to the section entitled, “Real Pain, Real Stories,” for the segments, “Be the Best Patient You Can Be,” “Building a Health Team,” and “Joy is the Greatest Analgesic in the World,” and other related stories.
 APF Collaborates with Life Love & Health
APF collaborates with Life Love & Health to launch a series of brief messages about pain. Life Love & Health has become America's most listened-to daily health and lifestyle program, reaching millions of listeners. Listen to our NEW shows Fibromyalgia is Real (featuring Power Over Pain Action Network Leaders Glenda Dykstra, Lois Pike and Rebecca Rengo) and Risk with Medication. For more shows, click here.
 Pain and Complementary Therapies Webinar Replay
On Thursday, 5/20/08, APF hosted an popular interactive webinar, Complementary Therapies for Pain Management, given by Judith M. Fouladbakhsh, PhD, APRN, BC, AHN-C, Assistant Professor at Wayne State University, Advanced Practice Holistic Nurse and Certified Healing Touch Practitioner. Couldn’t make it this time? Don’t worry! The webinar is now available for replay.
POWER OVER PAIN ACTION NETWORK: LEADERS IN THE NEWS
 Killer Jobs: 10 Painful Professions
POP Action Network Leader, Dan O’Neal from Oregon state was interviewed by ABC News about his work related injury that has led to a life with chronic pain.
Visit our How to Get Involved page to find more ways to become a part of the movement.
POLICY & ADVOCACY
Rep. Loebsack’s Military Pain Care Act Passed by House!
On May 22, 2008 the House passed the 2009 National Defense Authorization Act which included Rep. Loebsack’s Military Pain Care Act, H.R. 5465. This legislation will next move to conference to be combined with the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act. Read more... Thanks to all who took action and contacted their representatives. This is a real victory in all of our efforts to improve the quality of life for people affected by pain.
"Silent Disease" Getting Attention from Lawmakers
A resolution to bring greater awareness to fibromyalgia sufferers in Minnesota was passed on the Senate floor earlier today and will soon be heard in the House.
SPOTLIGHT ON PAIN
Cancer Pain
 Effects of Iyengar Yoga on Measures of Cognition, Fatigue, Quality of Life, Flexibility, and Balance in Breast Cancer Survivors
Studies have revealed the benefits derived from yoga which includes improvements in quality of life (QOL) and decreased symptoms for women with breast cancer.
Perception and Treatment of Cancer Pain Among Spanish-Speaking Populations in the United States: Summary of Focus Group Findings
Although many of the issues surrounding cancer pain communication in Spanish-speaking populations in the U.S. are similar to those of the population at large, focus groups revealed several culturally-based factors relevant to cancer pain management. These factors should be taken into consideration when designing materials on cancer pain and pain management for this audience.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia Pain Linked With Central Nervous System Disorder
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body.
Invisible Illness: Fibromyalgia is a Baffling Medical Condition That Causes Pain and Chronic Fatigue
Fibromyalgia has not progressed much from the netherworlds of medicine since it was first discovered in the early 1980s. Patients say many doctors remain skeptical and are simply not enthusiastic about treating or diagnosing the condition.
Elusive Battle Pain - and Skepticism - Still Plague Fibromyalgia Patients
Given its unpredictable nature and ability to overlap with other conditions, fibromyalgia often confounds doctors and patients alike. Patients can present doctors with a confusing collection of symptoms that have often been misdiagnosed or dismissed as imaginary.
Military/Veterans
Mirrors Helping Amputees Fight Phantom Pain
Physical therapists at Walter Reed Army Medical Center have a new weapon to help amputees fight their way out of pain and back to normal living.
Pain at the End of Life
Why Some Hospitals Are Allowing Unnecessary Suffering
Easing pain is arguably as important as saving a life. But far too many U.S. physicians focus only on the latter.
Shingles
 Centers for Disease Control Recommends Shingles Vaccine
Almost one out of three people in America will develop shingles during their lifetime, with greater risk to people over age 60. The CDC says that the only way to reduce the risk of developing shingles and the long-term pain that can follow shingles is to get vaccinated.
Study Suggests Shingles May Run in Families
A new study found patients with shingles were about four times as likely as to have had a close family member with the disease than people who don't have shingles. Researchers said the findings indicate a genetic susceptibility to the disease.
SCIENCE & MEDICINE
Computerized Tool Can Measure Quality of Life for Back Pain Patients
Researchers have tested an online computerized adaptive test designed to measure quality of life for patients with back pain and found the assessment to be effective. The Web-based tool asked questions on daily activities, walking, handling objects, pain or discomfort, and feelings.
Myobloc (Botulinum Toxin Type B) is Safe and Effective For First-Line Use for Treatment of Cervical Dystonia (Abstract)
Myobloc (Botulinum Toxin Type B) was found to be as safe and effective as Botulinum Toxin Type A in treating toxin-naïve cervical dystonia patients in a study published in the March 15, 2008 issue of Movement Disorders. The study compared the efficacy, safety, and duration of Botulinum Toxin Type A and Type B in toxin-naïve cervical dystonia subjects. Both were found to be effective and safe.
American College of Rheumatology Releases New Guidelines in Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The ACR has updated its guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. The new guidelines, published in the June 15, 2008 issue of ACR's journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, take into account major research advancements and the development of new treatment options.
Managing an Acute Pain Crisis in a Patient With Advanced Cancer
The assessment and management of an acute pain crisis in the setting of advanced illness is challenging. The article uses a lengthy patient study and interviews with his physicians to illustrate the assessment and management of an acute pain crisis at the end of life. [Abstract]
Fibromyalgia: A Label for Chronic, Widespread Pain
Rheumatologist and fibromyalgia specialist Daniel J. Clauw, MD, director of the University of Michigan Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center, created an online CME/CE guide and test questions to be offered on Medscape through May 29, 2009.
Interstitial Cystitis Educational Materials Now Available Online
The Association of Reproductive Health Professionals and Interstitial Cystitis Association have launched two components of a comprehensive medical education program, Screening, Treatment, and Management of IC/PBS (Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome): A Medical Education Program for Healthcare Providers and their Patients. Free, online publications including an IC Fact Sheet for patients, Health Matters: Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome are available here. A Quick Reference Guide for Clinicians, Diagnosis and Management of Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome, which provides quick and easily accessible answers to clinical questions about IC, is available here.
Acupuncture Reduces Pain and Dysfunction in Head and Neck Cancer Patients After Neck Dissection
New data from a randomized, controlled trial found that acupuncture provided significant reductions in pain, dysfunction, and dry mouth in head and neck cancer patients after neck dissection.
COMPLEMENTARY & ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Acupuncture, Myofascial Pain Therapy Alike
A U.S. physician suggests ancient acupuncture and modern myofascial pain therapy treat pain similarly. He recommends either therapy to help those seeking relief from musculoskeletal pain.
 Mindfulness Meditation: Lotus Therapy
For years, psychotherapists have worked to relieve suffering by reframing the content of patients' thoughts, directly altering behavior or helping people gain insight into the subconscious sources of their despair and anxiety.
Massage: Therapy That Feels Good
Practitioners say people with injuries or chronic pain can benefit from therapeutic massage.
The Use of Magnets for Pain
Magnets have been used for health purposes for centuries. Static, or permanent, magnets are widely marketed for pain control and are considered part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This fact sheet provides an overview of magnets and summarizes current scientific knowledge about their effects on pain.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
 ACE Project: Advocating for Clinical Excellence
NCI-funded study that seeks to enhance the advocacy and leadership skills of competitively-selected psychologists, social workers and spiritual care professionals through an innovative transdisciplinary educational experience. Four annual courses with 75 new participants per course will be held followed by a Reunion Conference in October 2010 that reunites all past 300 participants and faculty to disseminate findings, share lessons learned and strengthen participant change efforts. Substantial financial assistance will be provided to ACE attendees. Course 3 takes place November 11-14, 2008. Application deadline June 30th, 2008.
 NVA Research Proposals
The NVA invites research proposals focusing on the classification, etiology, diagnosis and/or treatment of generalized vulvodynia or vulvar vestibulitis syndrome. Grants typically range from $15,000 to $25,000. NVA requires confirmation that all funds will be applied to direct research costs, not institutional costs.
If you are interested in applying, please submit a 1-page letter of intent to Chris Veasley (chris@nva.org) by June 30, 2008 outlining the following:
- Name and professional background of the primary investigator
- Study objective and time frame
- Budget summary (US dollars)
NVA will email you application guidelines following receipt of your letter of intent. Completed applications are due August 8, 2008. If you have previously submitted a proposal to NVA, you are invited to re-apply. Applicants do not have to be U.S. residents. Summaries of studies previously funded by the NVA can be viewed on NVA's web site: http://www.nva.org/for_medical_professionals/research_fund.html. NVA welcomes correspondence about potential projects. Contact Chris Veasley via email (chris@nva.org) or phone (401-398-0830).
WEBSITE OF THE MONTH
 The Stupid Cancer Show
The Stupid Cancer Show is a pioneering new interactive talk radio broadcast giving voice to more than 1 million young adults affected by cancer. It's a free, mini social network that merges a radio talk show and Internet chat with live, real-time interactivity with the host, guest and all other listeners. Each week, the show features award-winning special guests from all areas of the cancer continuum, including young adult advocates, organizational leaders, celebrity survivors, musicians, authors, bloggers, oncology gurus and others.
EN ESPANOL
 M.D.Anderson Centro del Cáncer proporciona varios documentos relacionados con el dolor de cáncer.
MD Anderson Cancer Center Pain Management provides several documents related to cancer pain.
Encarar el Dolor
El Control del Dolor del Cáncer en el Nuevo Milenio
How to Deal With Pain
Cancer Pain Control in the New Millennium
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 19-22, 2008
Amputee Coalition of America Annual Conference
Atlanta, GA
July 9-11, 2008
End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC)
Pediatric Palliative Care Train-the-Trainer Program
Pasadena, California
July 13, 2008
The Interstitial Cystitis Association: Tampa Regional IC Forum
Tampa, FL
July 18-20, 2008
Biennial Scientific Meeting of the Pain Association of Singapore: Life Beyond Pain
Singapore
August 17-22, 2008
12th World Congress on Pain
Glasgow, Scotland, UK
September 3-6, 2008
American Society for Pain Management Nursing’s Annual Conference
Tucson, AZ
September 4-7, 2008
Pain Week 2008
Las Vegas, NV
 September 8-11, 2008
American Academy of Pain Management
19th Annual Clinical Meeting
Cultivating A Community of Care
Nashville, TN
September 23-26, 2008
17th International Congress on Palliative Care
Montréal, Canada
October 2-4, 2008
Fibromyalgia and Sleep Disorders Scientific Conference
Portland, OR
October 30 - November 1, 2008
SAVE THE DATE: Frontiers in Pain Management
19th Annual Meeting of the Alliance of State Pain Initiatives
Austin, TX
VOICES OF PEOPLE WITH PAIN
PainAid Online Support
Join our vibrant community and share discussion and your personal stories with others affected by pain. Here you will find: Conference Rooms (regularly scheduled chats on a range of issues); Discussion Boards (threaded message boards on a broad range of topics); and Ask the Expert feature (pose questions to licensed healthcare professionals). PainAid is staffed by highly qualified volunteers with a range of backgrounds, all of whom either live with chronic pain or care for people who do. Visit PainAid!
Be sure to check out the VOICES section of our website! New personal stories are added weekly!
Thank you to our medical/science editor, Peter J. Vicente Ph.D., ABPP.
Share with us how you’d like to get involved and ways you might be able to contribute your voice and skills to our joint efforts by completing our online Advocacy Survey. We welcome your participation and look forward to working with you!
The American Pain Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization that relies upon private donations to fund its programs, services, and distribution of educational materials. There are millions of people who live with unrelieved chronic pain. If you can help, please make a donation to the American Pain Foundation. For other ways you can support APF’s work, please visit our website at www.painfoundation.org.
To make sure you continue to receive our newsletters and alerts, please add editor@painfoundation.org to your address book or approved sender list. 
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