Benefits of Support Groups and Psychological Intervention — An Interview with Dr. Sarah Whitman
Chronic pain can isolate you from family and friends, causing you to feel alone in the world. Overcoming isolation and opening your mind to psychological help are two ways you can start on the path to healing. Support groups and psychological interventions are important tools available to people living with chronic pain. Read more in this interview with psychiatrist Sarah M. Whitman, MD, who treats people with chronic pain and runs a series of support groups for people living with chronic pain.

Pain in the News
Experimental gene therapy almost eliminates arthritis pain and lessens joint damage

Early-stage research has found that a new gene therapy can almost eliminate arthritis pain and significantly reduce long-term damage to the affected joints, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Read more.

Study shows counseling can help arthritis pain
People with arthritis who undergo psychological counseling and learn skills for coping with pain have less disability and better quality of life, say researchers who reviewed the results of 27 clinical trials that examined psychological interventions for arthritis. Read more.

Yoga may reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches
Researchers investigating complementary therapies to treat migraines say that yoga therapy helps reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines over a period of three months when compared to self-care techniques, such as avoiding migraine triggers and making diet and lifestyle changes. Read more.

Lyrica helps reduce pain related to fibromyalgia
Pregabalin (Lyrica), manufactured by Pfizer, reduces pain associated with fibromyalgia and improves sleep and fatigue, according to a new study published in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Read more.

Fentora helps breakthrough pain associated with neuropathic conditions
Results from a phase 3 clinical trial indicate that Fentora (fentanyl buccal tablet) is beneficial for the treatment of breakthrough pain in patients with neuropathic pain who are already taking opioids around-the-clock to manage their persistent pain. Chronic neuropathic pain is associated with conditions such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy, traumatic injury, postherpetic neuralgia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Read more.

Shining a Light of Hope for People Living with Pain — 2007 San Francisco Triumph Dinner
More than 300 guests, including leading pain experts from all over the country, attended the 2007 San Francisco Triumph Dinner at the Old Federal Reserve Building on Thursday, March 29, 2007. The dinner raised significant funds in support of the NPF's mission and work on behalf of 75 million Americans living with chronic pain. The event was emceed by comedian Dan St. Paul and featured wines from local wineries, gourmet food, silent and live auctions, a tribute to the late John C. Oakley, MD, and presentations of awards. Read more about the award winners and view photos from the event.