Prolotherapy injections for chronic low-back pain
Abstract Background Prolotherapy involves repeated injections of irritant solutions to strengthen lumbosacral ligaments and reduce some types of chronic low-back pain; spinal manipulation and exercises are often used to enhance its effectiveness. Objectives To determine the efficacy of prolotherapy in adults with chronic low-back pain. Search methods We searched CENTRAL 2006, Issue 3 and MEDLINE, […]
Systemic administration of local anesthetic agents to relieve neuropathic pain
Abstract Background Lidocaine, mexiletine, tocainide, and flecainide are local anesthetics which give an analgesic effect when administered orally or parenterally. Early reports described the use of intravenous lidocaine or procaine to relieve cancer and postoperative pain. Interest reappeared decades later when patient series and clinical trials reported that parenteral lidocaine and its oral analogs tocainide, […]
Supportive devices for preventing and treating subluxation of the shoulder after stroke
Abstract Background Supportive devices such as slings, wheelchair attachments and orthoses have been used to treat subluxation of the shoulder after stroke. Objectives To investigate the effect of supportive devices in preventing subluxation, re-positioning the head of humerus in the glenoid fossa, decreasing pain, increasing function and adversely increasing contracture in the shoulder after stroke. […]
Electrical stimulation for preventing and treating post-stroke shoulder pain
Abstract Background Shoulder pain after stroke is common and disabling. The optimal management is uncertain, but electrical stimulation (ES) is often used to treat and prevent pain. Objectives To determine the efficacy of any form of surface ES in the prevention and/or treatment of pain around the shoulder at any time after stroke. Search methods […]
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation for fibromyalgia and musculoskeletal pain in working age adults
Abstract Background Non-malignant musculoskeletal pain is an increasing problem in western countries. Fibromyalgia syndrome is an increasing recognised chronic musculoskeletal disorder. Objectives The objective of this systematic review was to determine the effectiveness of multidisciplinary rehabilitation for fibromyalgia and widespread musculoskeletal pain among working age adults. Search methods An electronic search was conducted and included […]