Blog Posts: Pain management

Migraine management involves more than treating pain when it happens. Learn about medication safety, preventing rebound headaches, and the daily habits that may help reduce how often migraine occurs and improve quality of life.

Migraine is not just a “bad headache”. It is a complex neurological disorder that can be disabling and affect many aspects of daily life. With 1 in 7 Canadians experiencing this chronic condition, if it doesn’t affect you directly, it likely affects someone you know. Learn what migraine is, how it’s diagnosed, how it can change with age, and when to seek urgent care.

Discover how physical activity can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility—without putting extra stress on your body.

Opioids are potent drugs used to manage pain, but they come with significant risks, especially for older adults. Learn about the potential dangers, including side effects and the risk of opioid use disorder with a 3-minute video featuring Dr. James MacKillop. Then read on to explore effective non-medication treatments to manage chronic pain.

Chronic pain is a complex and often misunderstood condition affecting nearly 8 million people in Canada. In this webinar recording, chronic pain expert Dr. Norman Buckley explores its causes, impacts, and management strategies and debunks misinformation about bogus remedies.

Pain reduction in people living with dementia. Non-drug options may be a good first step.

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that can be triggered by an injury or surgery and can be associated with certain conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and Parkinson disease. In this video, Dr. Raj Carmona discusses what causes frozen shoulder, the three distinct phases, and the range of treatment options, including the evidence for the use of steroid injections. Meet Glenda and find out what advice Dr. Carmona has for her.

Is medical cannabis effective for the treatment of chronic pain? Dr. Anthony Levinson and Dr. Jason Busse discuss how cannabis works to relieve pain, what the research says about its effectiveness and potential side effects, and what benefits there may be compared to opioids for chronic pain relief.

Considering complementary and alternative options for nerve pain? You should know that the current evidence base on the potential benefits and harms of herbal treatments—specifically, nutmeg and St John's wort—is uncertain.

Cannabis is increasingly touted as an effective treatment for a variety of ailments. But does the research support this? Find out whether cannabis is “worth the hype” for three common health conditions.

As you get older, getting from one place to another can be a challenge. To put you on the road to better health, invest in a sturdy pair of shoes and use the power of your own two feet to get you to where you need to be.

A gout flare-up can be a very unpleasant and painful experience. Several treatment options are available, so speak with your healthcare provider about which treatment might work best for you.

Although some people suffering from chronic neuropathic pain might find some relief with cannabis-based medications, the side effects may outweigh the benefits.

Many people will pop a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug casually at the slightest pain. Make sure that you are aware of the risks, and review your medications with your doctor.

Based on the research evidence, some drugs are getting credit they don’t deserve! They may even be doing more harm than good.

Low back pain can be debilitating but it can be managed with non-drug therapies and medications if needed. What works best? Find out recommendations from recent research evidence.

Want to age well? Consider making yoga part of your regular activities.

Alternative options for managing pain can bring relief without the risks associated with prescription drugs.

Do the benefits of opioids outweigh the risks? Or, is it time to re-examine their role in relieving pain?

Research shows that acupuncture is worth a try for people who suffer from chronic headaches or migraines.