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Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Chronic Pain: An Overlooked Connection
By Cynthia Townsend, PhD
Coping with chronic pain is a difficult struggle that requires a lifestyle management approach focused on caring for both the body and the mind. This struggle can be even more difficult when the cause of the pain involves a trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, work-related injury, combat-related injury, assault or even complications from a surgical procedure. In some cases, a person who is exposed to a traumatic event can develop an intense fear response to the trauma — a psychological syndrome called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Click here to read more about this disorder.

Preventive Treatment Strategies for Menstrual Migraine
By David M. Biondi, DO
Menstrual and ovulation-related headaches appear to occur when estrogen levels in the blood drop during the menstrual cycle. These changes can make women more susceptible to experiencing several different types of pain, such as headache, cramps, and muscle or joint aches, just before or during their menstrual period. There are ways to lessen pain or even prevent menstrual migraine. Click here to read more about prevention strategies.

Dealing with Stress During the Holidays
Dealing with stress during the holidays is a challenge for anyone, but can be especially challenging if you're dealing with the limitations of chronic pain. Read some basic tips to help you lessen the stress in your life and enjoy this holiday season.

Where Do I Sign Up for More Good Days?
By Linda Martinson
This poem is one of 26 in Linda Martinson's book, Poetry of Pain. Click here to read the poem in its entirety and to read more about her book.

Healing Steps to Wellness — Viruses and Flu Syndrome
By Michael W. Loes M.D. M.D. (H)
The best way to stay out of trouble is to avoid contact with those infected, and to run away from closed ventilated areas, such as airplanes. This month's Healing Steps to Wellness column explores the steps you can take to prevent flu and virus.

Using Magnets for Pain
There is a lot of information on the Web about various "cure alls" for chronic pain. Some treatments may have benefits while others may not. One such therapy—applying magnets to various areas on the body to treat pain—has been used for centuries, but with mixed results. Click here to continue reading about this controversial treatment.

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