Somatic Symptom Disorder Ups PTSD Risk

In somatic symptom disorder, patients develop too much focus on physical symptoms, such as pain, weakness or shortness of breath, which causes them significant distress and often creates problems for normal function, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Multimodal Use of Non-Opioid Painkillers Urged for Postsurgical Patients

With a growing realization that post-surgical opioids might be neither the safest nor most effective way to reduce pain, VA facilities are using a variety of non-opioid painkillers to help patients manage their discomfort after undergoing surgery. In fact, opioids are no longer considered first line treatment for most types of acute pain, including that related to surgery.

Biofeedback Can Help Headache Pain

PORTLAND, OR - Biofeedback can be a helpful treatment for headache pain, as well as possibly other conditions such as urinary and fecal incontinence. The technique also might aid in stroke recovery, according to a literature review by a team at the VA Portland, OR,...