Gaining on Pain: New Treatment Breakthroughs « Pain Management and Migraine Relief

Have you ever read WebMD the Magazine? If you have been in doctor’s offices, you may have seen copies in the waiting area. In the July/August 2008 edition, there is a great article, Gaining on Pain: New Treatment Breakthroughs, by WebMD’s own Michael W. Smith, MD and Scott M Fishman, MD, president of the American Pain Foundation.

This article, written in question/answer format, shares some exciting things about latest discoveries, new drugs,and experimental treatments for chronic pain. It brings out the point that chronic pain is a disease that requires a multi-faceted and holistic approach to treatment that includes focusing on the patient’s physical, psychological, social and cultural issues effected by their pain and limitations.

In the article there is a very accurate description of the downward spiral often experienced by chronic pain sufferers. The impact can be devastating to victims and their families – especially if the person in pain is also the main breadwinner in the family. As a chronic pain sufferer myself, I read it with all too much understanding of the price that can be paid by victims of this condition.

But the article is not about gloom and doom. It is about accomplishment and hope. Research has revealed exciting discoveries and increasingly effective alternatives. New drugs are being developed and tested and combinations of known alternatives are showing promise toward combating the debilitation caused by some chronic pain syndromes.

WebMD takes the issues of chronic pain and education very seriously. They make sure all of their content is accurate by calling upon the expertise of recognized leaders like Michael W. Smith, MD and Scott M. Fishman, MD. When you read WebMD the Magazine, you know you are reading reliable information. So if you haven’t yet seen this valuable resource, consider picking up a complimentary copy on your next doctor visit.