Top Osteoarthritis News
Get the latest news on arthritis, arthritis medication and arthritis treatment.
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Care After Joint Surgery May Affect Heart Health
French researchers say the quality of care patients receive right after having orthopedic surgery may have a major impact on their long-term heart health. Read Summary > -
Protecting Your Knees Early May Prevent Problems Later On
Experts say making lifestyle changes such as losing weight and doing lower impact exercises in your youth may help you prevent arthritis and knee replacements later in life. Read Summary > -
Steroid Injection Site Determines Sciatica Relief: Study
Sciatica pain caused by herniated discs may be treated most effectively when steroids are injected straight into the spinal nerve, researchers say, and this approach could be an viable alternative to surgery. Read Summary > -
Prescribed Exercises May Relieve Arthritis Pain
Dutch researchers have found that patients with hip or knee arthritis have a better prognosis if they continue to do their physical therapy exercises after completing a supervised exercise therapy at a medical facility. Read Summary > -
Number of 'Cyberchondriacs' On the Rise
Results from a new poll suggest that the number of so-called "cyberchondriacs" has risen from 154 million people in 2009 to 175 million people in 2010. Read Summary > -
Women More Affected by Chronic Pain: Study
According to a pain expert at the Atlanta Center for Behavioral Medicine, chronic pain occurs more often, last longer, and is more intense in women than it is in men. Read Summary > -
Poll Shows Americans Still Confused About Health Reform
According to a new poll by Harris Interactive and HealthDay, Americans are still confused about the health care reform bill signed into law by President Barack Obama in March. Read Summary > -
Patients Could 'Grow' New Joints, Scientists Say
For the first time, a team of scientists has developed a way to use stem cells to grow new joints inside the body that have a full range of movement and can bear weight. Read Summary > -
5 Reasons Behind Most Knee Replacement Failures
Though knee replacements perform well in more than 95 percent of patients, researchers have identified five reasons why most knee replacements fail. Read Summary > -
Doctors Slow to Diagnose Arthritis of the Back: Study
Researchers say patients could be saved as much as $10,000 in medical costs if doctors would skip an expensive step when diagnosing them with arthritis of the back. Read Summary > -
General Anesthesia May Boost Joint Replacement Infection Risk
According to a new study, people who have epidural or spinal anesthesia during a hip or knee replacement procedure are less likely to develop infections than those who are given general anesthesia. Read Summary > -
FDA Panels Reject Plan to Curb Narcotic Painkiller Abuse
Two expert panels that advise the FDA voted against the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy proposal because they objected to some features in the plan. Read Summary > -
Alternative Therapies May Ease Back Pain
Experts discuss such treatments as chiropractic care, vitamins, and acupuncture and their ability to treat chronic back pain. Read Summary > -
High Heels Shrink Calf Muscles: Study
Researchers say this finding may explain why high-heel wearers often find it painful to wear flat shoes. Read Summary > -
FDA Approves Generic Relafen for Arthritis
The generic form of the drug, nabumetone, is generally prescribed to treat patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Read Summary > -
Scientists Test Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis
In the year-long study, scientists will mix stem cells with cartilage cells in a laboratory and then inject back into patients' damaged knee joints. Read Summary > -
Immune Cell Linked to Herniated Disc Pain
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified an immune cell found in people with autoimmune disorders that appears to play a role in back pain associated with herniated discs. Read Summary > -
Custom Running Shoes May Not Help Prevent Injuries
Wearing running shoes that have been custom-made to your foot shape may not protect you from injuries, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Attitude, Health Literacy Affect Back Pain Management: Study
According to a new Australian study, the health literacy levels, beliefs, and attitudes of people who have chronic low back pain influence how they manage the pain related to their condition. Read Summary > -
Moose Give Clues to Human Osteoarthritis
Scientists studying a herd of moose on a remote island on the U.S./Canadian border say their work is shedding light on the development of osteoarthritis (OA) in humans. Read Summary > -
Glucosamine No Help for Arthritis-Linked Back Pain: Study
Norwegian researchers are reporting that the commonly used supplement glucosamine offers little or no relief for people who suffer from chronic back pain that is caused by osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker Expands Tylenol Recall
Some of the drugs included in this expanded recall include Children's Tylenol, adult-strength Benadryl, Motrin IB, Tylenol Extra Strength, Tylenol Day & Night, and Tylenol PM. Read Summary > -
Painkillers Do Not Boost Heart Disease Risk in Elderly: Study
Results from a new Australian study have found that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen do not increase elderly users' risk of heart disease. Read Summary > -
'Keyhole' Surgery Does Not Reduce Arthritis Risk, Study Finds
Scientists say this finding proves that injuries to the meniscus or ACL increase the risk of developing specific types of knee osteoarthritis, and that surgery does not reduce this risk. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can naproxen adversely affect blood pressure?
A reader who recently had joint surgery asks an expert if the naproxen he was taking for pain could be the cause of his suddenly elevated blood pressure. Read Summary > -
Alcohol Consumption Cuts Arthritis Risk: Study
Scientists at Leiden University in the Netherlands have found that drinking alcohol reduces people's risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, spondylarthropathy, and other joint conditions. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker Halts New Osteoarthritis Med's Testing
Pfizer has halted clinical trials on a new osteoarthritis medication called tanezumab after the condition of some patients given the drug worsened so severely they required joint surgery. Read Summary > -
Skin Color May Affect Pain Empathy: Study
Though human beings are hardwired to feel each other's pain, they feel less empathy when the other person's skin color does not match their own, researchers say. Read Summary > -
ER Visits Due to Painkiller Abuse Soaring: Report
According to a new government report, hospital emergency rooms are treating more than twice the number of prescription painkiller abuse cases than they did just a few years ago Read Summary > -
Boomers Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse on the Rise
Admissions for illegal and prescription drug abuse treatment among people ages 50 years and older nearly doubled between 1992 and 2008, a new report has found. Read Summary > -
Celebrex Better for Arthritis Patients' Stomachs: Study
A new study published in the medical journal The Lancet has found that the painkiller Celebrex (celecoxib) is better for the stomachs of arthritis patients than a combination of the painkiller Voltaren (diclofenac) and the proton-pump inhibitor Prilosec (omeprazole). Read Summary > -
Some Benadryl, Tylenol Added to McNeil Recall
Drugmaker McNeil Consumer Healthcare has added four product lots of Benadryl Allergy Ultratab tablets and one product lot of extra strength Tylenol rapid release gels to its January recall, saying the lots were inadvertently omitted from the initial list. Read Summary > -
Animals May Offer Unusual Health Remedies
A health reporter discusses remedies made from animals that treat such conditions as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, allergies, and pain. Read Summary > -
Wii Games May Help Older Adults Be More Active
According to a new study, video games such a Nintendo's Wii Sports may help overweight seniors burn calories and become more physically active. Read Summary > -
Common Painkillers Boost Heart Risks in Healthy People: Study
Results from a new study suggest that healthy people who take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen to relieve pain may be raising their risk of dying from heart-related causes. Read Summary > -
Meditation May Ease Emotional Impact of Pain
According to a recent study, people who practice mindfulness meditation may be better able to cope with pain because their brains anticipate it less. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker Concealed Motrin Recall: FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is considering criminal penalties against a division of drugmaker Johnson & Johnson, saying the company has a pattern of violations that include concealment of a recall of the painkiller Motrin. Read Summary > -
Doctors Regrow Knees 'From Scratch'
Researchers have found a way to regrow cartilage in a laboratory, thus creating custom "patches" to replace cartilage in damaged knees. Read Summary > -
FDA to Consider New Osteoarthritis Medication
Duexa is designed to reduce users' risk of developing upper gastrointestinal ulcers who take the drug for pain relief, its maker reports. Read Summary > -
Osteoarthritis Striking More Young People
Experts say more and more young people are being diagnosed with osteoarthritis, and they believe intensive sports and exercise may be to blame. Read Summary > -
FDA Investigating Serious Illnesses from Recalled Tylenol
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating reports of at least 775 serious side effects linked to Tylenol and other over-the-counter medicines recalled by drugmaker McNeil. Read Summary > -
Easing Ankylosing Spondylitis Naturally
Experts offer a list of natural ways to ease the symptoms of the chronic pain condition ankylosing spondylitis, including exercise, diet changes, and yoga. Read Summary > -
Synthetic Joint Lubricant Helps Relieve Knee Pain: Study
According to a new study, people who have arthroscopic surgery for a cartilage tear fare much better when the doctor also injects the joint with the synthetic joint lubricant Hyalgan. Read Summary > -
Celebrex May Prevent Some Skin Cancers
Stanford School of Medicine researchers have found that the arthritis drug Celebrex (celecoxib) can reduce the risk of basil cell carcinoma, a common type of skin cancer. Read Summary > -
FDA Approves Nasal Spray Painkiller
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a non-narcotic nasal spray called Sprix for people who have moderate to moderately severe pain. Read Summary > -
Acupuncture Does Provide Pain Relief: Study
In the study of 24 healthy volunteers, scientists found that the ancient practice of acupuncture increased participants' pain thresholds by up to 50 percent. Read Summary > -
Ginger May Ease Arthritis as Well as Meds: Study
Researchers at the University Medical School of Miami have found that ginger is as effective as conventional painkillers at easing osteoarthritis pain. Read Summary > -
FDA Panel Votes Against New Osteoarthritis Drug
A panel that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has rejected a new osteoarthritis drug called naproxcinod because of doubts about its effectiveness. Read Summary > -
FDA Investigating Gene Test Slated for Sale at Walgreen's
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration say they will investigate a gene test set to go on sale at pharmacy chain Walgreen's that is designed to help people assess their risk for inherited diseases. Read Summary > -
Even Moderate Drinking Can Harm Older Adults: Study
Though some research suggests that consuming one to two alcoholic drinks per day could carry some health benefits, a new study suggests that this habit may put older adults at risk. Read Summary > -
Genetic 'Reprogramming' May Cause Chronic Pain
Scientists working with rodents have found that chronic pain may be the result of accidental "reprogramming" of thousands of nerves in the peripheral nervous system. Read Summary > -
Statins Improve Hip Replacement Outcomes: Study
According to new research published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, cholesterol-lowering statins may decrease complications in people who have total hip replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
New Arthritis Painkiller Approved
The painkiller is designed to decrease the chance of gastric ulcers in patients at risk for developing them due to their use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Read Summary > -
New Osteoarthritis Pain Cream Available
A new topical pain treatment for osteoarthritis called Pennsaid is now available in the United States, its maker reports. Read Summary > -
How to Protect Your Hips and Knees
Experts offer advice for taking care of your hips and knees so that you can avoid both arthritis pain and joint replacements later in life. Read Summary > -
Officials Warn of 'Obamacare' Health Scams
In Illinois, an elderly woman was sold a policy to protect her from government "death panels," while some residents of Alabama have been given so-called "government health care reform insurance" after giving their bank account numbers. Read Summary > -
Changing Calcium 'Channels' May Ease Chronic Pain: Study
A researcher in Tel Aviv is conducting research on calcium channels in the body to see how these chemical pathways work in such chronic pain conditions as arthritis, backaches, and sore limbs. Read Summary > -
Translating Prescriptions to Spanish Can Lead to Errors
Researchers have found that Spanish-speaking people in the United States often receive prescription drug information that is so poorly translated that taking the medications may be potentially hazardous for the patient. Read Summary > -
FDA Panel Rejects Abuse-Resistant Pain Med
A panel of experts that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recommended that the agency reject a new painkiller called Acurox, which combines oxycodone and the vitamin niacin. Read Summary > -
New Painkiller May Fight Colon Cancer
According to a new study, an experimental form of the painkiller naproxen--the active ingredient in the over-the-counter drug Aleve--interferes with a molecular process that causes colon cancer. Read Summary > -
Knee Braces Ease Pain from Osteoarthritis
In a new study, people between the ages of 45 and 87 who had osteoarthritis and wore a knee brace had less pain, stiffness, disability after wearing the brace for six months. Read Summary > -
TV Doctors Mislead Real Patients, Experts Say
Television shows such as House and Grey's Anatomy that feature doctors are wildly popular, but experts say these shows' slippery ethics and questionable approaches to medicine may be misleading real patients in their expectations of medical treatment. Read Summary > -
Aetna to Halt Medicare Enrollment in Response to Sanction
U.S. officials say Aetna did not ensure that people already enrolled in the plan were able to keep getting the medications they were taking last year that were not in the company's formularies this year. Read Summary > -
Compression Device Better Than Meds After Hip Replacement
A new study published in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery has found that a compression device is as effective--and safer--for preventing blood clots than medication after hip replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
Knee Cysts May Make Arthritis More Severe
People who have both arthritis and subchondral bone cysts in their knees have more severe cartilage loss, more rapid disease progression, and a higher risk of joint replacement than people who don't have these cysts, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Rheumatic Arthritis Harder on Blacks, Hispanics: Study
Investigators say one reason for this finding is that blacks and Hispanics are more likely to get the more severe forms of rheumatic arthritis such as RA and lupus. Read Summary > -
Complex Back Surgeries Soar Despite Risks, Costs
According to a new study, the rates of complex surgical procedures to treat back pain have skyrocketed in the past few years--despite the fact that these operations are more expensive and riskier than simple treatments. Read Summary > -
Painkiller, Sedative Overdoses Sending More to Hospitals
According to new research, the number of people hospitalized for accidental and intentional overdoses of painkillers and sedatives has skyrocketed in the past decade. Read Summary > -
Uneven Leg Length May Cause Knee Arthritis
Unequal leg length may be a cause of osteoarthritis of the knee, researchers say, but if doctors could correct this problem with a simple shoe lift, this increased OA risk could be prevented. Read Summary > -
FDA Approves Tamper-Resistant OxyContin
The new form of OxyContin is designed to prevent the tablets from being chewed, dissolved, broken, or cut, which experts say will help prevent abuse of the drug. Read Summary > -
7 Top Health Care Fears: True or False?
Experts address the top seven fears about health care reform, giving the verdict on which are true and which are false. Read Summary > -
Obesity, Hypertension, Alcohol Boost Women's Gout Risk
Research published in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism suggests that obesity, high blood pressure, and alcohol consumption are among the major risk factors for gout in women. Read Summary > -
Arthritis Patients Often Turn to Self-Care for Relief: Study
According to a new study, people who find out their knee pain is caused by osteoarthritis will often take the right steps to treat it, and they probably won't consult a pharmacist or doctor about the best therapies. Read Summary > -
Hormone Replacement Therapy May Ease Arthritis
German researchers have found that hormone replacement therapy that is directed to joint fluid may help regrow cartilage in people suffering from osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
'E-prescribing' Cuts Medication Errors: Study
Doctors who use electronic prescribing systems rather than paper prescriptions may be able to significantly reduce medication errors, a new small study has found. Read Summary > -
Painkillers' Effect on Estrogen May Explain Decreased Cancer Risks
Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School have found that women who regularly take aspirin or other pain meds have lower estrogen levels than women who don't take the painkillers, a finding that may explain why pain medication users have a lower risk of ovarian and breast cancer. Read Summary > -
Flat, Light Shoes Best for Soothing Arthritic Knees
According to a new study, light, flat shoes that have a flexible sole are better for arthritic knees than walking shoes or clogs. Read Summary > -
Antidepressants Help Depression in People with Physical Illnesses
A review of previous research has found that antidepressants are effective at treating depression in people who suffer from physical illnesses. Read Summary > -
US Army Overhauls Fitness Training
For the first time in 30 years, the US Army is overhauling the way it trains soldiers. Read Summary > -
U.S. House Passes Sweeping Health Care Reform Bill
Members of Congress passed the legislation by a measure of 219-212, with 34 Democrats and all Republicans voting against the bill. Read Summary > -
FDA to Re-Evaluate the Menaflex Knee Implant
The Menaflex Knee Repair Implant has already been approved by the FDA, and it is highly unusual for it to re-evaluate an approved medical device. Read Summary > -
Chronic Pain a Disease, Not a Symptom: Experts
New imaging techniques have contributed to a better understanding of pain and how it works in the body, helping to move pain from a symptom to a disease in and of itself. Read Summary > -
Ways the Health Care Bill Could Affect You
If the compromise bill currently under consideration in the House passes, experts say Americans will notice some immediate changes to their health care, while others won't be felt for years. Read Summary > -
High-Impact Sports Don't Damage Knee Replacements, Study Finds
Scientists have found that participating in high-impact sports after a knee replacement may actually help patients regain better knee function. Read Summary > -
Knee Surgeons', Patients' Expectations Often Different: Study
According to a new study, the expectations of surgeons and patients about hip and knee replacement procedures are often quite different, and researchers say steps need to be taken to close this gap. Read Summary > -
Arthritis Drug May Fight Diabetes
A commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory arthritis drug, salsalate, has shown promise as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes, new research has found. Read Summary > -
Do You Think You're Too Old, Young, Active, or Fat for Knee Replacement?
Doctors and researchers have come up with revised guidelines for knee replacement surgeries, giving new recommendations for who is right for this procedure. Read Summary > -
Medication Fears Worsen Side Effects
Patients who are worried about their medicines are more likely to suffer side effects from them, scientists say. Read Summary > -
Knee Replacements May Improve Balance, Reduce Falls
According to a new study, knee replacements may help improve elderly people's balance, which may help reduce their risk of falling. Read Summary > -
Electromagnetic Therapy May Ease Knee Arthritis Pain
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital have found that electromagnetic pulses from a portable device significantly reduces pain and inflammation in people who have osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Read Summary > -
Bleeding Risks Vary Among NSAID Painkillers: Study
A review of nearly 10 years of medical literature has found that when it comes to gastrointestinal side effects--especially bleeding in the stomach--not all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers carry the same risk. Read Summary > -
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Helps Ease Pain: Study
Cognitive behavioral therapy--a type of therapy designed to challenge and reframe negative beliefs--may help people who suffer from chronic low back pain, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Zen Meditation May Help Brain Fight Pain
New research published in the medical journal Emotion has found that Zen meditation may actually help thicken the brain, making it more able to tolerate pain. Read Summary > -
Some Painkillers May Cause Hearing Loss
According to a new study, men who regularly take acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen have a higher risk of developing hearing loss than men who do not take the painkillers. Read Summary > -
Lack of Exercise, Excess Weight Boost Women's Arthritis Risk
Arthritis rates have increased in the United States and Canada, and researchers say higher levels of inactivity and obesity among women are part of the reason for the rise in arthritis cases. Read Summary > -
House Votes to Repeal Antitrust Exemption for Insurers
Democrats believe repealing the exemption will lead to increased competition between insurance companies and reduced costs for consumers. Read Summary > -
Studies Mixed on Effectiveness of Joint Pain Supplements
A health reporter reviews the available research on such joint pain supplements as glucosamine, chondroitin, mangosteen juice, SAMe, yucca root, and fish oil. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Cortisone Beneficial for Osteoarthritis
A woman who has osteoarthritis (OA) in both hips asks Dr. Peter Gott about the use of cortisone injections to treat her condition. Read Summary > -
Exercise May Ease Anxiety About Chronic Illness
People who suffer from chronic illnesses often also experience a great deal of anxiety, but University of Georgia researchers say regular exercise may help ease this anxiety. Read Summary > -
Spinal Stimulation No Help After Failed Surgery: Study
Using spinal cord stimulation on patients who still have chronic leg or back pain after back surgery is no more effective than standard pain or medical treatment, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Walking, Supplement Combo May Ease OA
A new study published in the open-access journal Arthritis Research and Therapy has found that osteoarthritis (OA) patients who combine "progressive walking" and glucosamine sulfate supplements may ease their arthritis symptoms. Read Summary > -
Ibuprofen May Fight Parkinson's Disease
Harvard researchers are reporting that the commonly used painkiller ibuprofen may help protect people from developing Parkinson's disease. Read Summary > -
Gout Boosts Heart Attack Risk in Women: Study
Canadian researchers have found that women who have gout have a 40 percent higher risk of both fatal and non-fatal heart attacks than women who do not have this condition. Read Summary > -
Health Care Reform Support Waning: Poll
According to a new poll, 40 percent of Americans surveyed hope that the health care reform bill proposed by President Obama and Democrats in Congress does not pass. Read Summary > -
Gel May Grow New Knee Cartilage
The nanofiber gel is injected into a damaged joint where it stimulates stem cells in the bone marrow to make natural cartilage. Read Summary > -
Slow Breathing May Ease Pain: Study
According to a new study published in the journal Pain, the simple practice of slow breathing may help soothe patients' emotional and physical reactions to moderate pain. Read Summary > -
'Tattletale' Pills Remind People to Take Meds
A high-tech product that can tell patients if they need to take their medications--or if they've taken them already--may be on the horizon, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Jane Fonda to Make Fitness DVD for Baby Boomers
Fonda, 72, suffers from osteoarthritis and has undergone both knee and hip replacement surgery, and her new fitness DVD is designed to encourage Boomers to work out. Read Summary > -
Knee Replacements Good for Knees, Bad for Weight
New research published in the journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage suggests that though knee replacement surgery helps improve mobility in patients who have the procedure, it also leads to weight gain. Read Summary > -
Cleats, Natural Grass Best for Knees
A team of orthopedists has found that athletes who wear cleats and play on a natural grass playing field are less likely to suffer anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries when they make quick turns. Read Summary > -
For Running, Barefoot May Be Best
Harvard researchers say running barefoot is better for people's bodies because of the way bare feet land on the ground. Read Summary > -
NSAID Injections May Boost Knee Surgery Success
According to a new study, arthritis patients who undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair damaged cartilage fare better after the procedure if they are given injections of sodium hyaluronate, a liquid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Read Summary > -
Doctor to Plead Guilty for Faking Painkiller Studies
Massachusetts anesthesiologist Dr. Scott Reuben, the former chief of acute pain at Baystate Medical Center, has agreed to plead guilty to charges that he faked research on painkillers that was published in several medical journals. Read Summary > -
Even Legitimate Painkiller Use Can Lead to Overdose: Study
People who take large doses of opioid painkillers such as OxyContin (oxycodone)--even if they do so for legitimate medical reasons--are at high risk of overdosing on the drugs, new research has found. Read Summary > -
Study of OA Progression Could Speed New Treatments
Scottish researchers hope their work in measuring the progression of OA in more detail will help drug companies better assess the effectiveness of new medications, making it easier and faster for them to reach the market. Read Summary > -
Tylenol Extra Strength, Rolaids, Motrin, Benadryl Among Recalled Drugs
A recall of Tylenol arthritis caplets initiated by drugmaker McNeill Healthcare LLC last month has been expanded to include such over-the-counter medications as Tylenol Extra Strength, Rolaids, Motrin, Benadryl, St. Joseph Aspirin, and Simply Sleep, for a total of 27 products. Read Summary > -
Combo Approach Helps Osteoarthritis: Study
Strength training and self-management techniques can help treat middle-aged people who have been diagnosed with early knee osteoarthritis, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Running Shoes Linked to Joint Strain, Arthritis
According to new research, the kind of running shoes currently on the market may do more harm to wearers' joints than running barefoot or walking in high-heeled shoes. Read Summary > -
Child Abuse Survivors More Prone to Chronic Fatigue, Pain Conditions
According to new research, survivors of childhood abuse are more likely to suffer from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, and interstitial cystitis. Read Summary > -
Bitter Cold Can Bring Health Risks
Bitter winter cold poses health dangers to everyone, but it can be particularly hazardous to children, seniors, and people who suffer from chronic illnesses, experts say. Read Summary > -
Celebrex May Fight Inherited Form of Skin Cancer
People who have the inherited skin disorder known as Gorlin syndrome may be able to reduce their risk of developing skin cancer by taking the painkiller Celebrex (celecoxib), scientists say. Read Summary > -
Death Risk 'Slim' After Joint Replacement: Study
According to a new study, people who undergo a knee or hip replacement have a slightly increased risk of death for only 26 days after having the procedure. Read Summary > -
Thumb Arthritis Pain Often Worse in Winter
Arthritis at the base of the thumb is a common problem for people over age 40, experts say, and it can become more painful during the winter months. Read Summary > -
Nerve Stimulation Doesn't Help Most Back Pain: Study
A new review of data has found that there is little evidence to show that using transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) to ease back pain is effective. Read Summary > -
Is Chronic Pain Damaging Your Relationship?
Chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain can have negative effects on relationships, experts say, particularly if one partner is skeptical about the other's source or severity of pain. Read Summary > -
The Decade in Medical Advances
Experts choose 10 of the top medical advances of the past decade, including human genome mapping, stem cell research, targeted cancer therapies, anti-smoking laws, and new HIV treatments. Read Summary > -
Acetaminophen Not Linked to Birth Defects: Study
Acetaminophen does not appear to increase the risk of birth defects, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Senate Passes Health Care Reform Bill
After more than three weeks of debate and compromise, Senate Democrats secured enough votes to pass a sweeping bill aimed at reforming the U.S. health system. Read Summary > -
Tape May Reduce Pain for Some With Knee OA
Australian researchers have found that simple athletic tape may help relieve pain in older people who suffer from patellofemoral osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the kneecap. Read Summary > -
Tylenol Arthritis Pain Caplets with EZ-Open Cap Recalled
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and McNeil Consumer Healthcare have announced a nationwide recall of all lots of Tylenol Arthritis Pain Caplet 100-count bottles with the EZ-Open Cap. Read Summary > -
Top 10 Health Innovations of the Year
Experts pick the top 10 most important health innovations for the past year, including the H1N1 flu vaccine, the electric stethoscope, the JaipurKnee, and the Lyric hearing aid. Read Summary > -
More Than 45 Million Americans Now Without Health Insurance
New statistics from the National Health Interview Survey show that in the first six months of this year, 45.4 million Americans were without health insurance. Read Summary > -
U.S. Life Expectancy Hits a New High
Federal health officials are reporting that the average life expectancy in the United States has reached nearly 78 years, a new record. Read Summary > -
Video: New Treatments for Knee OA
In this short video, experts discuss new treatments to help the more than 20 million people who suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee. Read Summary > -
10 Gifts That Ease Pain
In this slideshow, experts offer a list of gifts for people who suffer from such conditions as back pain, migraines, sore knees, and neck aches. Read Summary > -
Heavy Children Prone to Back Pain, Spinal Problems
Researchers have found that overweight and obese children and teens are more likely to experience severe back pain, abnormalities in their lower spine, and spinal disc problems than their normal weight counterparts. Read Summary > -
Oxycodone Linked to Rise in Narcotics-Related Deaths
According to Canadian researchers, the number of deaths from opioid painkiller use has doubled since 1991, and they say the increased use and abuse of the drug OxyContin (oxycodone) is behind these increased death rates. Read Summary > -
Budget-Friendly, Healthy Holiday Gifts
Experts at the National Institutes of Health offer this list of healthy, low-cost gifts that everyone on your list will enjoy. Read Summary > -
Strength Exercises May Help Office-Related Pain
According a new study, doing strength exercises can help reduce the neck and shoulder pain caused by office duties such as computer work. Read Summary > -
Painkiller Makers Present Safety Plan to FDA
Twenty-four pharmaceutical companies that make prescription painkillers have presented U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials with their plans for curbing the abuse of these narcotic drugs. Read Summary > -
Exercise Boosts Seniors' Osteoarthritis Risk: Study
Scientists at University of California, San Francisco have found that doing too much exercise once a person enters middle age may increase his or her risk of developing osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Osteoarthritis costs Americans $185 billion a year
A new study estimates that medical care for osteoarthritis costs the United States $185 billion annually, with insurance companies paying $149.4 billion and patients paying $36.1 billion in out-of-pocket costs. Read Summary > -
Muscle Weakness Linked to 'Runner's Knee'
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have found that weak quad and hamstring muscles may be the cause of the debilitating and painful condition known as "runner's knee." Read Summary > -
Aspirin May Prevent Eye Trouble in Women
According to new research, women who take daily doses of aspirin to protect their hearts may also be helping to prevent age-related macular degeneration, a condition that destroys people's ability to see clearly. Read Summary > -
Vioxx risks known years before recall: report
A new report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has found that drugmaker Merck knew about the increased cardiovascular risks of its arthritis drug Vioxx years before the company voluntarily recalled the medicine. Read Summary > -
Healthcare reform: What's in it for you?
A reporter compares the two healthcare reform bills moving through the House and Senate, explaining how the changes could affect you and your medical care. Read Summary > -
Loving Relationships May Ease Pain
New research published in the journal Psychological Science has found that thinking about a loved one may actually reduce patients' physical pain. Read Summary > -
Some herbal supplements boost women's lead levels: study
Boston researchers have found that some common herbal supplements appear to increase lead levels in women's blood. Read Summary > -
Injection could eliminate need for pain pills
Scientists are developing a type of injection that could help people living with pain control their symptoms for days without taking additional pain medication. Read Summary > -
Patients happier when docs discuss treatment side effects: study
Results from a new study suggest that hospital patients who suffer a side effect from treatment are more likely to give high ratings to their care when hospital staff are forthcoming with information about what went wrong with the treatment. Read Summary > -
Scientists seek to re-grow spinal discs
According to new research, there's a new option on the horizon for people who suffer from chronic back pain, re-growing healthy discs in the spine--without surgery. Read Summary > -
Depressed pain patients more likely to get opioids: study
According to a new study, chronic pain patients who suffer from depression are more likely to be prescribed narcotic painkillers such as morphine and codeine. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Add-on treatment for osteoarthritis pain
Call for adults ages 40 years to 80 years old who have osteoarthritis to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
FDA accepts application for new OA drug
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted a French drugmaker's new drug application for its experimental osteoarthritis drug naproxcinod. Read Summary > -
Fight fair: Words may ease health impact of arguing
Couples who use cognitive words during an argument may be helping their own and their partner's health, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Boomers may be more disabled than their parents: study
According to a new study, U.S. Baby Boomers are likely to enter their 60s with more physical disabilities than previous generations, and this could place an enormous burden on the American healthcare system. Read Summary > -
What to expect for Medicare Part D open enrollment
An analysis by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation has found that monthly premiums will rise an average 11 percent, though the premium changes vary widely by which plan seniors select. Read Summary > -
Yahoo, Google want more leeway for drug advertising
Drugmakers say the current FDA guidelines requiring both benefits and risks of drugs on ads hampers advertising on the Internet given the space constraints for ads on Web pages. Read Summary > -
Acceptance of chronic illness helps people 'move on'
According to new research, chronically ill patients who give up hope that they will get better are actually happier than people who have not accepted their condition. Read Summary > -
Healing Scar Tissue: Hope for Spinal Cord Injuries
Researchers have developed a new enzyme to break down dense scar tissue that builds up on the spinal cord after central nervous system damage. Read More > -
Sleep Apnea Therapy Improves Golf Game
Sleep apnea sufferers may have some more motivation to wear their breathing machines at night … it could improve their golf game. Read More > -
Early use of some pain meds may prevent Alzheimer's
Scientists working with mice have found that taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) from a young age may help prevent Alzheimer's disease. Read Summary > -
Lack of health care worsens women's quality of life: WHO
Though women generally live longer than men worldwide, scientists say that women are not able to "reach their full human potential" because their critical medical needs are not being met. Read Summary > -
How to pay less for prescription drugs
The U.S. recession has made it more difficult than ever for people to afford their prescription medications, but according to one expert, there are several options for helping make meds more affordable. Read Summary > -
House passes healthcare reform bill
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a landmark healthcare reform after a 14-hour day of debate, with only one Republican backing the measure along with 219 Democrats. Read Summary > -
Childhood abuse linked to osteoarthritis
University of Toronto researchers have found that adults who experienced childhood physical abuse are 56 percent more likely to have osteoarthritis than people who were not abused. Read Summary > -
FDA approves topical NSAID pain med
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug called Pennsaid. Read Summary > -
Radiation from medical scans skyrocketing
Scientists say exposure to radiation from medical procedures has risen 600 to 700 percent in the past 20 years, and it is now the biggest source of radiation for Americans. Read Summary > -
Illness, surgery not linked to seniors' mental decline
New research published in the journal Anesthesiology suggests that illness and surgery don't contribute to long-term cognitive decline in seniors, nor do they accelerate the development of dementia. Read Summary > -
Easy access to MRIs increases back surgeries
An analysis of Medicare data has found that people with new pain in their low back are more likely to undergo surgery if they live in an area that has an abundance of MRI machines. Read Summary > -
High fiber foods may fight inflammatory disease: study
Eating a diet that is a high in fiber appears to reduce people's risk of developing inflammatory diseases such as asthma, arthritis, inflammatory bowel conditions, and diabetes, Australian researchers have found. Read Summary > -
Tai Chi may improve knee pain in older adults
New research published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research has found that regular Tai Chi exercise may both reduce pain and improve function in older adults with osteoarthritis of the knee. Read Summary > -
Tips for a safe Halloween
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers this list of safety tips on treats, costumes, pumpkins, and trick-or-treating. Read Summary > -
Knee pain condition may improve with therapy: study
People who suffer from the severe knee pain condition known as patellofemoral pain syndrome fare better with supervised physical therapy than they do taking a "wait and see" approach, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Healthcare system wastes as much as $800 billion each year: report
A new report from Thomson Reuters has found that the U.S. healthcare system wastes up to $800 billion every year, and that proposed healthcare reform measures could be paid for by eliminating these wasteful practices. Read Summary > -
Feds to halt medical marijuana prosecutions
President Obama's administration has decided to cease prosecutions of medical marijuana suppliers and users, provided they obey state laws concerning the drug's use for medical purposes. Read Summary > -
Dextrose may prevent post-op nausea
According to new research, giving patients dextrose--a form of glucose--may help prevent the nausea and vomiting many experience after surgery. Read Summary > -
Duke's 'Coach K' says OA can be beaten
Duke University basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski talks about how he's winning his battle against osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Glucosamine doesn't prevent joint damage: study
University of Pittsburgh researchers say the popular arthritis supplement glucosamine does not prevent joint damage in patients with osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
FDA offers advice on medication disposal
The site gives particular emphasis to the disposal of opioid painkillers, which can be harmful or deadly if taken by someone other than the person for whom they were prescribed. Read Summary > -
Copper, magnetic bracelets don't help arthritis pain: study
British researchers say that copper and magnetic bracelets marketed to relieve arthritis pain don't actually help improve arthritis patients' joint discomfort, stiffness, or physical function. Read Summary > -
Recovery from back pain more likely than once thought: study
According to a new study, four in 10 people who suffer from low back pain will recover within one year, a finding that refutes the common notion that long-term chronic back pain is inevitable. Read Summary > -
New anti-inflammatory drug goes to FDA
Drugmaker Nicox has submitted a new drug application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its new anti-inflammatory medication Naproxcinod as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Arnica may relieve pain
Studies suggest that Arnica, a plant found in the mountains of Europe and North America, may really work to relieve stiffness and pain. Read Summary > -
Can you do cardio with damaged knees?
A reader who has suffered an injury to his knee asks experts if it's possible to do 30-60 minutes of cardio with the limited use the injury has caused. Read Summary > -
ACL Tears Send More Teens to OR
It sends thousands of patients to the OR every year, and those patients are getting younger. New research shows ACL tears are on the rise in women and teens, and more and more often leading to re-injury and multiple surgeries. Read More > -
How to call in sick without losing your job
Experts discuss the best ways to call in sick without jeopardizing your job, including how to make the call and which days of the week will arouse the most suspicion if you consistently choose them to call in sick. Read Summary > -
The 5 best new back pain gadgets
British back pain experts review five of the best new devices for treating this type of chronic pain. Read Summary > -
Lower back pain doesn't mean cancer: experts
Australian researchers say even very severe back pain is unlikely to mean the sufferer has a more serious health issue such as a broken vertebrae, arthritis, or cancer. Read Summary > -
Appetite hormone linked to OA in the obese
Researchers working with mice found that extremely obese mice didn't develop osteoarthritis if their bodies did not contain the appetite-regulating hormone leptin. Read Summary > -
Senate Finance Committee rejects public healthcare option
Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Celery seed relieves gout pain
A reader tells Joe and Teresa Graedon of The People's Pharmacy that celery seed extract capsules helped relieve his gout pain and reduce his uric acid levels to normal. Read Summary > -
9 'mother's health rules' get an update
Should you clean your plate, avoid reading in the dark, and sit up straight? Some experts say no. Read Summary > -
FDA says it made 'mistakes' on knee-device approval
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration admit the agency violated procedures last year when it approved the Menaflex knee-repair device against the recommendations of its own scientists. Read Summary > -
Avoiding autumn chore injuries
Experts at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offer a list of tips for avoiding the falls and other injuries that often accompany autumn chores. Read Summary > -
FDA: Personal emergency response button poses choking hazard
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have issued a warning that a type of personal emergency response button worn around the neck poses a choking hazard. Read Summary > -
Aspirin fights colon cancer: study
Scientists have found that a daily dose of aspirin can prevent colon cancer in people who have a genetic predisposition to develop the disease. Read Summary > -
FDA panel backs abuse-resistant Oxycontin
A panel of experts that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recommended approval for a new abuse-resistant form of the painkiller OxyContin. Read Summary > -
What's a 'normal' symptom and what's not?
Everyone experiences pain and other symptoms at some point, but how can you tell if what you're feeling is "normal," or if it signals some more serious medical condition? Read Summary > -
Pain may speed aging by 30 years: study
According to a new study, younger people who live with chronic pain have similar abilities and comparable appearance to people who are decades older. Read Summary > -
New drug eases OA without raising blood pressure
According to a new study, a new drug called naproxcinod helps ease pain related to osteoarthritis (OA) as well as the commonly used painkiller naproxen, and it does so without raising users' blood pressure. Read Summary > -
Osteoporosis drug may slow cartilage loss
The osteoporosis drug Forteo may help slow cartilage loss--a benefit that experts say could help osteoarthritis patients as well. Read Summary > -
Making the most of expiring health insurance
A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it. Read Summary > -
Collagen deficiency linked to OA
Duke University scientists working with mice have discovered that a deficiency in a certain of collagen appears to cause osteoarthritis (OA) and degenerative disc disease. Read Summary > -
Yoga may ease lower back pain
According to a new study, practicing yoga may help decrease lower back pain. Read Summary > -
Morning best for orthopedic surgery: study
Patients who undergo orthopedic surgery may lower their risks of unplanned follow-up surgery later on by having their procedure done between 6:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Read Summary > -
Pfizer fined $2.3 billion for improper drug marketing
A unit of drugmaker Pfizer has pleaded guilty to a single felony charge that accused the company of marketing its painkiller Bextra for higher dosages and wider uses than those approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Read Summary > -
Placebos truly reduce pain: study
In a study, scientists found that a patient's simple expectation that a treatment would relieve his or her pain appeared to act as a painkiller. Read Summary > -
Strong thighs may protect women's knees from arthritis
According to a new study, having strong thighs may protect women's knees from developing osteoarthritis, but it does not appear to offer the same protection to men. Read Summary > -
Vitamins and herbs that can harm you
Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say. Read Summary > -
FDA cracks down on ibuprofen gels
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have issued warnings to eight companies for illegally selling pain-relief gels that contain ibuprofen. Read Summary > -
Sleep training helps insomnia in arthritis patients
According to a new study, a type of therapy known as cognitive behavior therapy may ease pain and sleep problems in older people who suffer from both arthritis and insomnia. Read Summary > -
Experts doubt 'toning shoe' claims
Makers of "toning shoes" claim wearers can tone their body and ease some conditions just by walking in the shoes, but doctors and other medical experts aren't sure these claims are true. Read Summary > -
Saving Younger Knees
Most people take about 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. In the average lifetime, that's 115,000 miles. Most cars wear out by then -- so why shouldn't your knees? More than 400,000 people will need knee replacements this year, but before Gen Xers go for the total trade-in, there's a new option that will keep younger knees in place -- longer. Read More > -
Cost of Medicare drug plan to go up
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services say most Medicare drug plan recipients will see a slight increase their drug plan premiums in 2010. Read Summary > -
Web site lets patients 'rate' their doctors
A new Web site called Patient Central is trying to help people choose their doctor by giving patients surveys about their experiences with physicians and then posting the results. Read Summary > -
FDA approves abuse-resistant painkiller
The new drug, called Embeda, is meant to thwart people who chew or crush long-acting opioid medications to get a "high" from the drugs. Read Summary > -
Some fentanyl patches recalled
Drugmaker Watson Pharmaceuticals has voluntarily recalled one production batch of its Fentanyl Transdermal System patches. Read Summary > -
Can running actually help your knees?
Many people believe running can damage their knees, particularly if they run after age 40--but is this true? Read Summary > -
Older drivers often not aware of prescription risks
Only 28 percent of the people ages ages 56-93 surveyed in a recent study knew that their medicines could affect their driving ability. Read Summary > -
Download the healthcare reform bill here
H.R. 3200--the Obama administration's hotly contested healthcare reform bill--is available in its entirety as a free download from the Library of Congress Web site. Read Summary > -
Study: Aspirin may prevent colorectal cancer deaths
According to new research, taking aspirin may not only lower your risk of getting colorectal cancer, but it also might reduce the odds of dying if you have it. Read Summary > -
Obama gives healthcare 'pep talk' to senators as they leave for break
The White House considers healthcare reform to be vital to a U.S. economic recovery and wants the legislation approved by the end of the year. Read Summary > -
Billions spent on alternative medicine in US
Alternative medicine products and procedures such as chiropractic care, herbal supplements, acupuncture, and meditation cost Americans $33.9 billion in 2007, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can gin-soaked raisins ease arthritis?
A woman who suffers from severe swelling in her hands and arms every morning says eating a few gin-soaked raisins every day has significantly improved her symptoms. Read Summary > -
Muscle mass linked to disability in the elderly
Experts say building muscle strength in seniors may help them stave off disability longer. Read Summary > -
Protein level could predict severe OA
Osteoarthritis patients with the highest levels of a protein known as vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) are more likely to need a hip or joint replacement due to severe arthritis, researchers say. Read Summary > -
1 in 10 high school seniors have used narcotics
Most use the drugs to get "high," for relaxation, or for the sake of experimentation, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
House panel approves healthcare reform bill
The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall. Read Summary > -
'Arthritis kits' targeted in Medicare fraud bust
Federal agents have arrested 30 people in connection with Medicare fraud in Louisiana, New York, Boston, and Houston, many for giving patients so-called "arthritis kits." Read Summary > -
Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system. Read Summary > -
How to help a partner in chronic pain
Researchers have found that in couples living with chronic pain, the person who isn't dealing with pain may be invalidating the feelings of a person who is, and this can lead to less intimacy in the relationship. Read Summary > -
Muscle rubs not always best for chronic pain
A review of studies on the effectiveness of muscle rubs has found that these topical treatments aren't always the best choice for treating all types of pain. Read Summary > -
Scientists at work on safer acetaminophen
Louisiana scientists are working to create a safer form of the painkiller acetaminophen. Read Summary > -
Doctors judge patients by their looks, studies show
Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight. Read Summary > -
Reid: No healthcare vote until after August recess
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says there will be no vote on healthcare reform before Congress takes its August break, a move that would go against President Obama's announced timetable for its vote. Read Summary > -
Scientists look for the early signs of OA
Researchers at the University of Nottingham are trying to find out if inflammation in the knee is an early sign of osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New drug for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who are overweight or obese and who have OA of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
AMA backs House healthcare reform bill
The American Medical Association (AMA) is urging approval for healthcare overhaul legislation currently moving through committees in the U.S. House of Representatives. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Tanezumab for OA of the knee
Call for adults with osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
House bill would make health care a 'right, responsibility'
Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives want to define health care as a right and a responsibility for all Americans. Read Summary > -
Excess weight speeds arthritis: study
Being overweight or obese speeds up the breakdown of the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to osteoarthritis, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Surgeon General choice will put primary care at the forefront
Dr. Regina Benjamin, President Obama's choice for Surgeon General, puts the face of primary care at the forefront of the Obama administration's healthcare reform efforts, experts say. Read Summary > -
New Technique Improves ACL Surgery
Surgeons from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York have identified a drilling technique that improves the outcome of surgery to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. Tears of the ACL are quite common, with between 70,000 and 80,000 reported each year in the United States. Surgeons at HSS perform more than 800 ACL surgeries each year. Read More > -
Simple Exercise Eases Tennis Elbow
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Less invasive sciatica surgery no better than standard procedure: study
Dutch researchers say a minimally invasive back surgery aimed at treating sciatica pain was no more effective than standard back surgery at easing the condition. Read Summary > -
Charging medical bills a risky business
Unemployment rates are climbing and medical bills are mounting, forcing many American to pay their medical bills with credit cards. Read Summary > -
Thousands of seniors hurt in cane, walker mishaps annually
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women are the most at risk for accidents involving these assist devices. Read Summary > -
Darvon will stay on the market--with stronger warnings
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ruled the the painkiller Darvon can stay on the market, but it will be required to carry stronger warnings about its risk of overdose. Read Summary > -
Spinal disc degeneration common in elderly
Many older Americans have degeneration, even if they don't have back pain. Read Summary > -
New procedure may ease rotator cuff injuries
Italian researchers say a new nonsurgical technique may help reduce pain and restore shoulder mobility in people who suffer from tendinitis of the rotator cuff. Read Summary > -
Study: Thinking about food can help relieve pain
According to research at the University of Wisconsin, people who fantasized about their favorite foods were able to increase their pain tolerance and decrease their pain-related anxiety. Read Summary > -
Hospitals close to agreeing to accept Medicare cuts
According to Kaiser Health News, the hospital industry is about to agree to accept federal funding cuts of $150 billion to $170 billion over the next decade to help pay for efforts to reform the national healthcare system. Read Summary > -
If Vicodin, Percocet banned, what next?
Experts say that if the FDA chooses to ban Vicodin and Percocet as its advisory panel suggests, the move won't be too drastic because alternatives exist. Read Summary > -
FDA panel wants Vicodin, Percocet banned
The popular prescription painkillers Vicodin and Percocet--which combine acetaminophen with a narcotic pain drug--should be banned, according to a panel of experts that advises the FDA. Read Summary > -
Wal-Mart supports employer health insurance mandate
The Associated Press is reporting that the nation's largest private employer, Wal-Mart, has announced that it supports an employer health insurance mandate. Read Summary > -
11 health myths debunked
A health reporter debunks 11 myths about your health, and some of them truths may be surprising. Read Summary > -
FDA panel recommends lower doses for acetaminophen
An expert panel that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the maximum dose for pain medications that contain acetaminophen should be reduced to help curb deadly overdoses among users. Read Summary > -
Drugmakers defend acetaminophen as FDA considers limits
Makers of over-the-counter cold and flu products that contain the painkiller acetaminophen say their products should remain on the market despite concerns from U.S. regulators. Read Summary > -
EU wants Darvocet off the market
European drug regulators say the painkiller Darvocet (dextropropoxyphene, propoxyphene) should be pulled off the market because patients using the drug have been dying from overdoses. Read Summary > -
How painkillers can lead to cardiac arrest
Doctors discuss how pain drugs like Demerol and OxyContin--which some speculate may have caused pop star Michael Jackson's death--can cause cardiac arrest. Read Summary > -
How to get quick help in the ER
The average total wait time in an emergency room in the United States is four hours and three minutes, but experts say there are ways you can cut down your wait. Read Summary > -
FDA seizes generic maker's drugs
The seizure of meds from drugmaker Caraco affects 33 medications, and it could lead to a shortage of the painkiller choline magnesium trisalicylate. Read Summary > -
Doctors avoid joint replacements for the very obese
According to a new study, orthopedic surgeons are less likely to recommend joint replacement surgery for patients who are morbidly obese, and researchers say the surgeons' unwillingness to do so is not justified. Read Summary > -
6 things patients do that doctors hate
Patients are full of complaints about their doctors, but many doctors feel the same way about some of their patients. Read Summary > -
Hidden Heart Disease Impacts Endurance Athletes
There are a few endurance athletes for whom regular athletic training will increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias and even sudden death, especially among those in middle-age or who have a pre-existing cardiac disease. Read More > -
Study: Patients often not told lab test results
According to a new study, patients who have routine blood tests done by their primary care physician often are never informed about the results. Read Summary > -
Knee replacement a good value, U.S. study finds
Researchers have found that for older adults with severe osteoarthritis (OA), total knee replacement surgery is a cost-effective way to treat the condition. Read Summary > -
Drugmakers offer millions in senior discounts to help healthcare reform
U.S. drugmakers have agreed to pay out $80 million in discounts to seniors over the next decade in an effort to help pay for President Obama's healthcare reform plan. Read Summary > -
5 quick ways to ease back pain
experts give a list of five ways you can stop back pain, including choosing the right mattress, eating nutrients that help build muscle and bone, and doing exercises that specifically target strengthening the back. Read Summary > -
What you should know about healthcare reform
A health reporter answers some of the most commonly asked questions about healthcare reform to help you understand this process as it moves through Congress. Read Summary > -
Study: Too few women in clinical trials
According to a new study, many women appear to lack the resources or time to participate in a clinical trial. Read Summary > -
Old medications? Don't flush them
Flushing expired or unused prescription medications may seem like a safe and easy way to dispose of them, but health experts say this practice harms the environment. Read Summary > -
Ignorance of basic anatomy may hinder health care: study
In a recent study, British researchers found that only half of the people asked where their heart was could identity where it was located. Read Summary > -
FDA says new gout drug works--with risks
Krystexxa is effective at relieving the flareups and swollen joints associated with gout, the FDA says, but it does so with the risk of potentially fatal side effects. Read Summary > -
FDA approves injected ibuprofen
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved an injectable form of the painkiller ibuprofen called Caldolor. Read Summary > -
Scientists use nanotechnology to relieve OA
Researchers in Israel have proposed using injections of fat globules using nanotechnology to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). Read Summary > -
Replacing Worn Out Wrists
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Q&A: Does the Alexander technique work for back pain?
A study published in the British Medical Journal found that this non-invasive way of adjusting body posture to relieve stress on the spine was effective at treating back pain, but very few U.S. doctors know of the technique. Read Summary > -
5 ways to avoid fake healthcare scams
A health reporter gives fives ways you can know if a medical discount or insurance plan is a scam. Read Summary > -
Health Warning for Female Athletes
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7 ways to ease your osteoarthritis
Managing osteoarthritis (OA) pain can seem like an uphill battle, but experts say there are some things have been proven to alleviate the condition. Read Summary > -
New ankle replacement device approved
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new kind of ankle replacement, the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR) system, for people whose ankle is deformed or crippled by arthritis. Read Summary > -
Acetaminophen needs tougher warnings, FDA says
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say acetaminophen needs tougher standards to protect consumers from liver damage and accidental overdose. Read Summary > -
Study: To lift without injury, listen to the pros
According to a new study, the techniques used by professional movers can help you reduce your risk of serious injury when doing heavy lifting. Read Summary > -
Pain-related depression responds to tailored treatments: study
A combination of drugs and therapy works best for patients suffering from depression because of a chronic pain condition, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Hauser case brings up issue of parents' rights
Who has the right to make decisions about a child's medical needs--the parents, the doctors, or the courts? Read Summary > -
Wearing high heels can lead to arthritis
Podiatrists say osteoarthritis is twice as common in women than in men, and they blame this difference on high heels. Read Summary > -
Thumb splints at night may reduce OA pain
Researchers have found that wearing thumb splints at night may help ease osteoarthritis (OA) pain over time. Read Summary > -
In NFL, Fitness Protects the Heart
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FDA says music, images in drug ads distract viewers
Prescription drug advertisements have drawn fire for portraying healthy-looking, smiling patients while explaining benefits, and then rushing through or providing distractions when required risk information is given. Read Summary > -
Tip: Foot arthritis triggers
The American Podiatric Medical Association has compiled this list of triggers for foot arthritis. Read Summary > -
New hip replacements may last 20 years
Researchers say younger, active patients will benefit from a new cement-less hip replacement. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker offers free medications to unemployed
Drugmaker Pfizer is making 70 of its most popular medications--including Lipitor, Viagra, and Celebrex-- available at no cost to people who have lost their jobs and do not have health insurance. Read Summary > -
5 tips for getting insurance with a pre-existing condition
A health reporter gives five tips for getting health insurance coverage if you have a pre-existing medical condition, including using COBRA, finding assistance through your state, and becoming a "group of one." Read Summary > -
Tiny implant may ease chronic pain
According to new research, a tiny injectable implant that is smaller than a grain of rice might one day take the place of large neural stimulators used to treat chronic pain and other neurological disorders. Read Summary > -
A little drinking helps men live longer: study
According to a new study, a half a glass of wine or other alcohol beverage each day boosts men's life expectancy by five years. Read Summary > -
Acupuncture--real or fake--helps back pain: study
According to a new study, people with chronic low back pain who undergo acupuncture--even fake acupuncture that uses toothpicks instead of needles--experience relief from their symptoms. Read Summary > -
Ginseng fights inflammation, scientists find
Researchers at the University of Hong Kong have identified anti-inflammatory compounds in the traditional remedy. Read Summary > -
Knee alignment can make arthritis worse: study
Australian researchers have found that while malalignment of the knee joint doesn't appear to increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, it is an independent risk factor for the progression of the condition. Read Summary > -
Taking Steps After a Stroke
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Health literacy boosts happiness in older adults: study
Older adults who are able to read, understand, and use health and medical information are happier, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
New report highlights women's mental health issues
According to a new government report, women are nearly twice as likely as men to suffer from major depression, three times more likely to attempt suicide, and two to three times more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men. Read Summary > -
Do sports creams really ease pain?
Despite big sales and a wide variety of brands available, there is little evidence that sports creams and pain-relieving rubs actually work, experts say. Read Summary > -
Elderly should not use NSAIDs long-term: experts
An expert panel of American Geriatrics Society is all but "crossing off" non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) from its list of recommended drugs for older adults with chronic, persistent pain. Read Summary > -
Report: Disabled Boomers a growing concern
A new report published the the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that over the next 20 years, aging Baby Boomers are expected to cause large increases in the number of U.S. adults with disabilities. Read Summary > -
Arthritis, fibromyalgia affect computer use: study
According to a new study, people who have arthritis and fibromyalgia experience pain and other problems related to computer use that could affect their ability to work. Read Summary > -
Poll: Public lacks confidence in the FDA
According to a new poll, more than half of U.S. adults surveyed believe the federal agency is falling behind in safeguarding food, drugs. Read Summary > -
"Wii warriors" often play hurt
A health reporter talks to doctors and to "Wii warriors" about the Wii gaming system, its games, and the problems associated with its use--and overuse. Read Summary > -
OTC painkillers get new warning labels
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has finalized new warning labels for over-the-counter painkillers, warning consumers of the risks of stomach bleeds or liver damage related to the drugs. Read Summary > -
Co-pays keep chronically ill from getting meds: study
Researchers have found that many patients are waiting years after a diagnosis to fill a first prescription because of high co-pay costs. Read Summary > -
Waking up during surgery common: study
U.S. researchers have found that waking up during surgery is surprisingly common, affecting 1-in-500 surgical cases. Read Summary > -
Canada becomes third nation to confirm swine flu cases
Canada became the third country to confirm human cases of swine flu Sunday as other nations considered wider measures to curb the spread of the virus. Read Summary > -
White House: Be prepared, not panicked about swine flu
Officials in the Obama administration are seeking to reassure an edgy public about a potential swine flu outbreak, stressing the need for patience and preparedness, not panic. Read Summary > -
3 ways to protect yourself from swine flu
Reporter Ben Sherwood offers this list of three ways you can protect yourself from the swine flu virus. Read Summary > -
State of emergency declared as U.S. swine flu cases rise to 20
The federal government has declared a public health emergency to deal with swine flu, the Associated Press reports. Read Summary > -
Painkillers may boost dementia risk: study
Contrary to prior research, a new study has found that older people taking NSAIDs actually are more likely to suffer mental decline than people who don't take the drugs. Read Summary > -
Women's knees affected by their menstrual cycle: study
Canadian researchers have found a link between the looseness of a woman's knee joint and her monthly hormone cycle. Read Summary > -
New technique relieves arthritis of the thumb
Doctors are using a new technique to stabilize the joints in the hand and thumb in order to eliminate pain. Read Summary > -
Scientists create long-acting local anesthetic
The slow-release injection could ease discomfort in specific areas for days or weeks, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Drug Heals Broken Bones
A drug approved for the treatment of osteoporosis is healing broken bones with stem cells. Read More > -
Custom Ankle Replacements
Two million people visit the doctor every year because of pain from ankle arthritis or fractures. For some, ankle fusion was the only option to ease the pain, but it made the ankle stiff. A personalized ankle replacement could be the answer for those who want to put some spring back in their step. Read More > -
Extra weight in mid-life affects mobility later: study
A new study has found that seniors who lose weight are still at risk from previous obesity. Read Summary > -
Driving safely with arthritis
A health reporter offers advice on how you can minimize arthritis' effect on your driving. Read Summary > -
FDA to check old medical devices
In a step that critics have long requested, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will begin checking the safety of some of the riskiest medical devices. Read Summary > -
Painkillers after spinal surgery linked to deaths
Middle-aged men appear most at risk from overdosing following the surgery, study found. Read Summary > -
Winter's Tail Helps Humans
She may be the only dolphin to lose her tail and survive. Now her progress in the water is helping amputees on land. The research behind the one-of-a-kind prosthetic is making life more comfortable for others who've lost a limb. Read More > -
Kroger recalls mayonnaise in 3 states
Grocery store chain Kroger has recalled some store brand mayonnaise because it may be contaminated with salmonella. Read Summary > -
Repairing Rotator Cuffs
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Unapproved narcotics get FDA warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to nine companies for selling 14 unapproved narcotic pain medicines as part of an ongoing effort to rid the market of drugs without proper approval. Read Summary > -
Walgreens offers free care to unemployed, uninsured
The drugstore chain Walgreens is offering free clinic visits to people who lose their jobs and health insurance through the end of this year. Read Summary > -
Chiropractic care may help ADHD symptoms
A very small study suggests there might be a link between ADHD and spine health in children. Read Summary > -
Avoid pistachios, FDA says
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning consumers not to eat any products containing pistachios because the nuts may be contaminated with salmonella. Read Summary > -
Kroger recalls pistachios in 31 states
The recalled products may be contaminated with salmonella, Kroger officials say. Read Summary > -
Tips for shopping for health insurance
A health reporter talks to experts about how you can navigate the "minefield" of choosing a private health plan. Read Summary > -
5 operations you don't want--and what to do instead
Experts say there are alternative treatments you may want to try before agreeing to heartburn, lower-back, and heart surgery. Read Summary > -
Collaborative care helps ease chronic pain
In a new study, successful intervention included doctor training, patient education, and feedback. Read Summary > -
Weight loss may not help ease knee arthritis
Many people who suffer from knee arthritis believe that losing weight will ease their pain, but a new study suggests that may not be the case. Read Summary > -
FDA panel backs new anti-clotting drug for hip, knee replacement
The drug, rivaroxaban, could replace heparin after hip- or knee-replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Recognizing arthritis in the thumb
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons lists these common symptoms of arthritis in the thumb joint. Read Summary > -
Shot of ozone zaps back pain
In just a few years, a shot of ozone could be the "go to" method to relieve an aching back. Read Summary > -
Stapling for Scoliosis
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10 ways to save on prescriptions
A recent study by Consumer Reports has found that 28 percent of Americans have taken dangerous steps to cut the cost of their prescription medications. Read Summary > -
Millions of Americans with chronic ills put off health care
Survey shows they suffer consequences of delaying doctor visits, filling prescriptions. Read Summary > -
Brain hemorrhage may explain Natasha Richardson's death
In the wake of the sudden death Wednesday of actress Natasha Richardson, reports that she suffered critical brain damage after a seemingly minor fall on a Canadian ski slope on Tuesday have many people wondering how this could happen. Read Summary > -
Many seniors not selecting lowest cost Medicare drug plans
Too many choices along with confusing options are throwing up roadblocks to making the smartest decision, report says. Read Summary > -
Doctor accused of fabricating pain drug studies
Massachusetts anesthesiologist Dr. Scott Reuben has been accused of fabricating results in more than 20 published studies that claimed to show after-surgery benefits from painkillers. Read Summary > -
Hip osteoarthritis therapy no better than placebo
FDA-approved injection for knees is less effective in deep joint areas, study finds. Read Summary > -
Shot of Ozone Zaps Back Pain
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Supreme Court rejects limits on drug-injury lawsuits
The Supreme Court made the ruling based on a case involving a Vermont musician who lost her arm to an anti-nausea drug. Read Summary > -
Doctors barring patients from writing online reviews
Doctors say negative online reviews of their services can ruin their reputations, but consumer advocates say patients have a right to post reviews on their care. Read Summary > -
10 things you shouldn't keep from your doctor
According to experts, people lie to their doctors for a number of reasons, but keeping secrets from your doctor can endanger your health. Read Summary > -
A primer on national healthcare reform
A reporter answers some of the most common questions about how healthcare reform may--or may not--change the way you manage your health. Read Summary > -
Rotator Cuff Repair Stands Test of Time
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Obesity boosts risk of joint replacement
Researchers in Australia have found that people who are obese and who also suffer from osteoarthritis (OA) are nearly three times more likely to need a hip or knee replacement later in life than people of normal weight. Read Summary > -
FDA approves Synvisc-One for OA of the knee
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new medication called Synvisc-One for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Read Summary > -
Scientists find how chili pepper compound eases pain
Scientists at the University of Buffalo say they've found out how capsaicin--which is found in chili peppers--may work to ease joint and muscle pain. Read Summary > -
Researchers find cause of gray hair
It turns out that keeping your life stress-free may not help you avoid gray hair, but scientists say their finding may lead to new anti-aging treatments. Read Summary > -
Obama to send $15 billion for state Medicaid programs
In a recent meeting with governors at the White House, President Barack Obama said his administration intends to distribute $15 billion within two days to help with states' Medicaid payments to the poor. Read Summary > -
Five ways to get EMTs to take you seriously
A reporter talks to experts about the best ways to deal with emergency medical personnel so that you and your symptoms are taken seriously. Read Summary > -
Add more facts to drug ads, experts urge
A new study wants the FDA to mandate boxes that clearly state how well a medication works. Read Summary > -
Nausea drug shows promise against opioid addiction
Ondansetron relieves withdrawal symptoms without side effects, an early study shows. Read Summary > -
Drug reduces inflammatory arthritis symptoms, lesions
Ustekinumab effective for those who don't respond to current treatments, study finds. Read Summary > -
When arthritis affects the hands
Experts have compiled this list of signs that you may need to seek treatment for arthritis in your hands. Read Summary > -
Chronic low back pain is on the rise
Doubling of rate in North Carolina may mimic rest of nation, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Some complementary meds have no effect on arthritis: study
An analysis of published studies on complementary therapies such as capsaicin gel, S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), and glucosamine has found that many of these treatments have no effect on rheumatoid arthritis, but some do help patients with other forms of arthritis and chronic pain. Read Summary > -
Get help here if you've lost your health insurance
If you're one of the millions of Americans who is living without health insurance, experts say there are things you can do to gain or regain health coverage. Read Summary > -
Cell Injections Mend Broken Bones?
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Gene Could Repair Injured Nerves
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A checklist for joint replacement surgery
With increasing numbers of baby boomers reaching retirement age, joint replacement surgery is becoming a reality for more Americans. Read Summary > -
FDA seeks better regulation of painkillers
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced plans Monday to tackle growing concern over the misuse of powerful painkillers by requiring manufacturers of certain opioid drugs to help develop a plan to reduce the risks associated with the medications. Read Summary > -
Prescription chondroitin may help knee osteoarthritis
Long-term use of chondroitins 4 and 6 sulfate (CS) appears to slow the worsening and ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee, a new study says. Read Summary > -
Lay-off fears can lead to healthcare mistakes
A health reporter talks to experts about the top three mistakes people can make with their health insurance during these uncertain economic times. Read Summary > -
How to save on prescription drugs
Experts say there are ways people can save money on prescriptions during these hard economic times, including comparing retail outlets and talking to their doctors about less expensive options. Read Summary > -
Aspirin cuts stomach cancer risk: study
New research published in The British Journal of Cancer suggests that aspirin may cut a person's risk of developing stomach cancer by as much as a third. Read Summary > -
Cymbalta significantly reduces OA pain in new study
Drugmaker Eli Lilly is reporting that its antidepressant Cymbalta significantly reduced pain in people suffering from osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee in a new study. Read Summary > -
New technique may diagnose osteoarthritis earlier
Swiss researchers say a new minimally invasive microscopic technique could diagnose osteoarthritis (OA) earlier than current diagnostic techniques. Read Summary > -
FDA panel recommends banning Darvocet
Critics say Darvon, which is sold primarily under the brandname Darvocet, is not an effective painkiller, and that it also poses a risk for overdose and suicide in users. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker recalls dozens of generic drugs
The medications--which includes generic formulas of such medicines as OxyContin, Toprol XL, and Norvasc--were made under conditions that did not comply with standard manufacturing practices, but patients are advised to continue taking them as prescribed and to be in touch with their doctors about any problems related to the drugs. Read Summary > -
Back, neck pain hard to treat after long leave
People who suffer from back and neck pain and who take a long time off work have a more difficult time recovering from their condition than those who return to work more quickly. Read Summary > -
Stimulus plan would pour millions into healthcare
The economic stimulus plan currently being debated in Washington would pour millions of dollars into healthcare, experts say. Read Summary > -
Studies mixed on glucosamine's effectiveness
Millions of arthritis sufferers turn to glucosamine or chondroitin to relieve their joint pain, but a new review of 15 studies has yielded mixed results on the effectiveness of the popular supplements. Read Summary > -
Arthritis myths debunked
A reporter talks to experts about arthritis myths, replacing the myths with medical fact. Read Summary > -
Healthcare expenses you can't afford to skip
As people cut healthcare spending to make their monthly bills, experts say there are some health-related expenses that you can't afford to skip. Read Summary > -
38 companies now involved in peanut butter recall
Experts say Americans eat 700 million pounds of peanut butter every year, which is complicating the recall effort. Read Summary > -
FDA issues warning about skin-numbing drugs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to healthcare providers and consumers about serious and life-threatening risks associated with improper use of prescription and over-the-counter topical anesthetics. Read Summary > -
A simple checklist makes surgery safer, study finds
The 19-item checklist includes such basic steps as having the doctors and nurses introduce themselves, ensuring that adequate blood is on hand, and making certain that all equipment needed is present. Read Summary > -
A list of Kellogg's recalled peanut butter products
This article contains a list of the products voluntarily recalled by the Kellogg Co. because they could be contaminated with salmonella from a Georgia peanut processing facility. Read Summary > -
FDA warns consumers to avoid peanut butter products
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning consumers to avoid eating all products that contain peanut butter or peanut butter paste, except for jarred peanut butter. Read Summary > -
FDA eases off-label drug regulations
The move, which has been opposed by pharmaceutical industry critics, allows drugmakers to distribute medical journal articles that describe unapproved uses for drugs. Read Summary > -
Kids with arthritis need better counseling: study
Researchers at the University of Minnesota say that children who suffer from arthritis need more help and information when they approach adulthood to ensure that they get adequate health care as adults. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Obama's healthcare headache
Physician and health and science reporter David Brown discusses how President-elect Obama's promise to reform the U.S. healthcare system is going to be more difficult than many imagine. Read Summary > -
Obama wants digital health records in 5 years
In an effort to both revive the economy and modernize health care, President-elect Obama has proposed that all medical records be standardized and made electronic within the next five years. Read Summary > -
Some wary of Sanjay Gupta as surgeon general
Some believe Gupta is already recognized as a spokesperson for good health, while others believe he lacks the experience or depth of knowledge of the world of public health to be an effective surgeon general. Read Summary > -
Surgery not always the answer for back pain
For some patients with back pain, spinal surgery is worth the risks and costs, while others end up with results they didn't anticipate. Read Summary > -
Doctors--not devices--often to blame when hip replacements fail
New research suggest that when a hip replacement fails, it's often surgical error--and not a design flaw--that causes the problem. Read Summary > -
Pros and cons of the top 11 fitness trends
Will "exergaming" help you get into shape, or should you try boot camp or high-intensity interval training instead? Read Summary > -
Easing your aching back
Experts from the National Athletic Trainers' Association offer a 10-step guide to easing back pain. Read Summary > -
Is arthroscopic knee surgery the answer?
A new study has set off a debate about whether arthroscopic knee surgery is necessary for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Read Summary > -
12 ways to ease osteoarthritis pain
Experts from the American Arthritis Society have compiled this list of 12 ways to ease the pain of osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Driving can be tricky after surgery, injury
Orthopedic surgeons say that deciding when a patient can safely return to driving after an operation is a difficult decision because driving is more than a physical activity. Read Summary > -
Study: New arthritis drug better for blood pressure than naproxen
Drugmaker NicOx is reporting that its experimental arthritis drug naproxcinod was more beneficial for blood pressure than naproxen in a recent study. Read Summary > -
FDA approves tapentadol for acute pain
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved tapentadol immediate-release tablets for the relief of moderate to severe acute pain in adults. Read Summary > -
Chronic conditions may lead to health anxiety
One in four people who suffer from such chronic health conditions as backache, heart disease, or multiple sclerosis become so worried about their health that they develop health anxiety. Read Summary > -
Tips: How exercise helps arthritis pain
Doctors from the University of Virginia Health System offer a list of the benefits of exercise for people who suffer from arthritis. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Salmon calcitonin for OA of the knee
Call for people ages 51 years to 80 years who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Five ways to get a second opinion online
Experts say the Internet may offer patients an easier way to have doctors review their case and provide advice. Read Summary > -
Killing the Superbug
The potentially deadly "superbug" could soon meet its match. Results of a new study bring scientists closer to killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Read More > -
CDC: One-third of arthritis suffers say condition affects work
A new survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had found that 33 percent of arthritis sufferers say the condition affects their ability to work. Read Summary > -
Arthritis joins list of obesity-linked ailments
People who are overweight are more likely to suffer the pain of osteoarthritis in their hips and knees as they age than people of normal weight, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New treatment for knee OA pain
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have moderate to severe chronic pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Exercise for Diabetics
Moderate exercise combined with some weightlifting may reduce fat levels in the livers of people with type 2 diabetes by up to 40 percent, according to a new Johns Hopkins University study. Read More > -
Caffeine and Breast Cancer Risk
In a new study, researchers found caffeine is not associated with overall breast cancer risk, but it could increase the risk of cancer for women with benign breast disease or for specific types of tumors. Read More > -
Lyrica may ease knee-replacement pain
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have found that giving knee-replacement patients Lyrica before and after the surgery significantly reduced their pain and increased their mobility after the procedure. Read Summary > -
Report: 1 in 10 U.S. adults treated for arthritis
A new report from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) shows that approximately one in 10 Americans either visited a doctor or called for a prescription to help relieve their arthritis pain in 2005. Read Summary > -
Expert recommends "shock absorber" for knee OA
A doctor discusses a joint fluid therapy called viscosupplementation, which he says can help improve the "shock-absorbing" protection of the fluid in the knees of patients with osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: After a Hip Replacement
How to help your recovery Read More > -
How much pounding can joint replacements take?
In this article from NPR, experts talk about factors that affect the rate of joint replacement "revisions" and the kinds of activities that people might want to avoid after the surgery. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Could Voltaren gel help my joint pain?
A reader asks Joe and Teresa Graedon of The People's Pharmacy about the new gel form of the painkiller Voltaren. Read Summary > -
Resistance training may help knee OA
Training with resistance machines, free weights, isometric exercise, and devices such as elastic bands may help boost mobility and reduce pain in people who suffer from osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Glucosamine, chondroitin don't work against OA: study
But the study did find that people with this wear-and-tear form of arthritis who take glucosamine alone may experience some benefits. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Running and incontinence
A reader asks experts at FitSugar.com why she suffers from occasional incontinence while running. Read Summary > -
Rose hips may ease arthritis
Two new studies have found that the active ingredient in rose hips may help protect and possibly rebuild joint tissue damaged by arthritis. Read Summary > -
Does running boost your osteoarthritis risk?
Many people believe running harms the joints and boosts a person's arthritis risk, but studies suggest the opposite may be true. Read Summary > -
Incontinence puts many women off sports
A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that incontinence may make many women reluctant to take part in sports. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Choosing a Knee Brace
Which type is best for you? Read More > -
Health Tip: Prevent a Pain in the Neck
Stretch and relax neck muscles Read More > -
Health Tip: Pregnancy and Back Pain
Help prevent it Read More > -
Q&A: What's the best natural arthritis pain remedy?
A reader asks Dr. Robert Shmerling to pick the best natural remedy for the aches and pains of arthritis. Read Summary > -
Knee implant may prevent OA
Doctors hope the collagen implant, which replaces damaged cartilage, will lower the risk of developing Osteoarthritis or needing a total knee replacement. Read Summary > -
Abuse-resistant drug effective against chronic pain
The medication, called Embeda, is made up of coated, extended-release pellets of morphine that each have a core of the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Read Summary > -
Study: Surgery no better than meds for knee OA
Arthroscopic knee surgery is no better for treating age-related osteoarthritis (OA) than rigorous physical therapy or drug treatment, a study suggests. Read Summary > -
Walking the Walk
The way a person walks can say a lot about who they are. Whether a person is a ballerina or a linebacker, their strut can provide cues to their age, gender and even mood. Read More > -
Giant Steps
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Sweating Out Asthma
People who suffer from exercise-induced asthma (EIA) may benefit from strategies to increase their production of sweat and other bodily fluids. Read More > -
Study: Almost half of U.S. adults will have OA by age 85
Investigators say that their study underscores the need for public health weight loss and management interventions that will help decrease people's OA risk. Read Summary > -
Researchers discover how OA destroys cartilage
University of Rochester Medical Center researchers say they've discovered the first direct proof of how osteoarthritis destroys cartilage. Read Summary > -
Daily ibuprofen may boost heart risks
U.S. researchers are reporting that ibuprofen may raise the risk of heart attacks and other fatal and serious problems when elderly people take it daily for arthritis. Read Summary > -
5 mistakes that lead to medical debt
In this article, CNN reporter Elizabeth Cohen lists five mistakes that will land you in medical debt, and she talks to experts about how you can avoid them. Read Summary > -
8 ways to cope with osteoarthritis
Dr. Elizabeth Smoots offers this list of eight tips for helping you cope with osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Lyrica for knee replacement pain
Call for adults ages 18 years to 80 years old who have had total knee replacement surgery to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Qigong therapy may ease OA
Qigong is a general term for a variety of traditional Chinese energy exercises and therapies that seek to balance or unblock energy forced within and around the body. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Take Care of a Cast
Protect your injury and stay comfortable Read More > -
Treadmill Helps Post Stroke
Walking on a treadmill isn't just for people wanting to slim down; it's also helping stroke victims regain mobility years after a stroke. Read More > -
Modified MRI could spot early signs of OA
Researchers say a modified MRI scan may help doctors detect OA at an early enough stage that patients might not need major medical intervention to treat the disease. Read Summary > -
5 steps to creating an OA diet
Can changing your diet affect the progression of your arthritis? One expert says yes. Read Summary > -
Posture training eases back pain
British researchers say a posture training method known as the Alexander Technique may provide relief for chronic back pain that lasts for more than a year. Read Summary > -
Cymbalta tested for chronic back pain
The drug, which is used to treat major depressive order, has shown promise as a treatment for chronic low back pain in a small clinical trial. Read Summary > -
Study: Adult stem cells regrow knee cartilage
In a recent study, a new adult stem cell treatment was successful at regrowing damaged knee cartilage in postmenopausal women suffering from OA. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: GI problems from Celebrex, NSAIDs
Call for adults ages 55 years and older who have osteoarthritis to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study compares pain meds' stroke risks
A new study has found that Vioxx and Bextra, which have been pulled off the market, increase stroke risk, but Celebrex, common NSAIDs do not. Read Summary > -
Marathon Runners: How do they do it?
The men's marathon Olympic event will take place on August 24th. Many of the eager fans waiting at the finish line are probably wondering how long-distance runners can endure such a strenuous sport. Now, researchers say they may have the answer. Read More > -
Immigrant Children Less Active?
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New hip replacement surgery speeds recovery
A doctor in Indiana says a new hip replacement surgery now available in that state is resulting in quicker recovery for patients. Read Summary > -
Study: Heavy work boosts teen boys' arthritis risk
According to a new study, teenage boys who perform heavy farm work may be more prone to arthritis in later life. Read Summary > -
Video: Types of back pain
In this short video, a doctor talks about the different types of back pain and the conditions that can cause them. Read Summary > -
An Exercise Pill?
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Frankincense med shows promise against OA
The supplement, called 5-Loxin, is already available in North America in Osteo Bi-Flex products with the Joint Shield blend sold in food. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Pain Reliever Side Effects
Know potential risks before you take them Read More > -
Experts call for joint replacement registry
The United States does not have a joint replacement registry to track problems with the devices, and experts say this it putting patients at risk for receiving faulty replacements. Read Summary > -
Researchers: Don't deny obese patients knee replacements
In some parts of the United Kingdom, knee replacement surgery is offered only to patients who are not clinically obese on the grounds that obesity is itself a risk factor for OA. Read Summary > -
Can Devil's Claw treat OA?
Dr. Grant Cooper answers a reader's question about whether the African plant Devil's Claw is effective at treating OA. Read Summary > -
Video: Gel injections may ease OA
In this short video, a reporter talks to a doctor who is using injections of an innovative gel to treat OA. Read Summary > -
New guidelines issued for back pain treatment
The American Pain Society has added to it recommendations for the treatment of back pain, and the organization has also decided to speak openly about invasive procedures that could harm sufferers. Read Summary > -
Study: Joint replacements worth it
Undergoing joint replacement surgery may well be worth the trouble for older people with severe OA, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Top 3 arthritis myths
Dr. Grant Cooper gives this list of the top three myths about osteoarthritis (OA) he's heard in his time treating arthritis patients. Read Summary > -
Can frankincense ease OA?
The boswellia herb--also known as Indian Frankincense--has been used for thousands of years to treat a number ailments, and some research suggests it may treat OA. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Voltaren spray for knee OA
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Do those arthritis diets and supplements work?
Experts at WebMD review a variety of diets and supplements that claim to ease arthritis. Read Summary > -
Hip replacement beneficial at any age
Total hip replacement is good for seniors with osteoarthritis, regardless of how old they are, Duke University researchers say. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Agilus for OA of the ankle
Call for adults ages 18 years to 95 years old who have osteoarthritis of the ankle to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Enter your creative works about living with pain
The American Pain Foundation, in collaboration with The HealthCentral Network, is inviting you to share your painting, sculpture, video, words, or pictures about living with pain. Read Summary > -
NSAID creams may beat pills
Experts say that doctors have likely under-prescribed topical NSAID creams because they didn't believe they were as effective as pills. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New med for knee OA
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Extended-release morphine tablets recalled
ETHEX Corp. is recalling one lot of 60 mg extended-release morphine sulfate tablets. These pills could be thicker than normal and contain up to twice the dose of painkiller. Read Summary > -
When is the right time to take meds?
Millions of people take medications, but most are not aware that the drugs may be more effective if taken at certain times of day. Read Summary > -
Court: Healthy Vioxx users not drugmaker's responsibility
Last year, Merck agreed to settle thousands of lawsuits alleging Vioxx-related heart problems for $4.85 billion. Read Summary > -
Insoles may ease knee pain
Relatively inexpensive shock-absorbing insoles may help people who suffer from knee OA suffer less pain during long walks, a researcher has found. Read Summary > -
Summer flip-flops may cause foot pain
According to one researcher, flip-flops are are not designed to properly support the foot and ankle during all-day wear and should only be worn for short periods of time. Read Summary > -
Analysis: Artificial knees aren't real knees
A reporter talks to doctors about what patients can--and can't--expect from artificial knees. Read Summary > -
FDA asked to consider Cymbalta for chronic pain
Cymbalta is already approved in the United States for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and diabetic neuropathy in adults. Read Summary > -
When to avoid a massage
Most experts agree that getting a massage is a good thing, but for people who suffer from some health problems, massage can actually make their conditions worse. Read Summary > -
Report: 60 percent of adults have chronic health woes
A chronic medical conditions is defined as one expected to last at least one year and result in limitations or the need for ongoing care. Read Summary > -
Study: Obesity raises men's hip OA risk
Being overweight has long been known to be a risk factor for OA, but a recent study is the first to show that being overweight is a risk factor for hip OA in men but not women. Read Summary > -
Back pain linked to low vitamin D levels
Low vitamin D levels boost older women's risk of having back pain, researchers say, but don't appear to have the same effect on men. Read Summary > -
Video: Measuring painkiller damage
In this short video from WebMD, experts discuss how some painkillers can damage the digestive system and a new way to diagnose these problems. Read Summary > -
Why some people delay knee replacement surgery
Researchers have identified four overarching themes among people who are choosing to undergo knee replacement surgery that may delay the patient's decision to have the procedure. Read Summary > -
Survey: Women downplay spine fracture risk
Women who suffer from back pain underestimate their risk of spinal fracture, a new survey suggests. Read Summary > -
Helping Knees Heal Themselves
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Arthritis affects half of U.S. diabetics
Experts say obesity is a possible explanation for the link between the two conditions. Read Summary > -
Some patients report "squeaky" hip replacements
Ceramic hip replacements are allegedly more durable, but some patients say the squeaking noises they emit are interfering with their daily lives. Read Summary > -
Cane use may slow OA progress
Though OA can affect any joint, it most often strikes the knee because of weight bearing while walking. Read Summary > -
Voltaren gel effective in new trial
Older patients with OA who used Voltaren gel in a new study had significant pain relief, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Cherries may ease arthritis
New research suggests that tart cherries may offer relief to people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Hip, knee replacements on the rise
Experts say the number of hip and knee replacements may skyrocket in the next seven years, an increase that could strain the U.S. health care system. Read Summary > -
Study: Rosehip may ease OA pain
"Although based on a sparse amount of data, the results of the present meta-analysis indicate that rosehip powder does reduce pain; accordingly it may be of interest as a nutraceutical, although its e Read Summary > -
Adult stem cells may treat knee OA
Australian researchers have begun a trial that they say could replace drugs--and even surgery--for the treatment of knees affected by injury and osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Study: Back belts don't prevent pain
Lumbar or lower back supports--those large belts that people wear around their waists when they lift or carry heavy objects--are not very effective for preventing low back pain, according to a new sys Read Summary > -
Procedure offers hope for failed back surgery
Failed back surgery syndrome affects nearly half of all spine surgery patients. Read Summary > -
Gastric bypass may help low back pain
According to a new report, obese patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery to lose weight also reduced their amount of low back pain. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: X-ray study of new med for OA
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00565812 Read Summary > -
Pine bark OA med shows promise
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/104297.php Read Summary > -
FDA approves world's smallest spinal pain device
The device, which is roughly the size of the U.S. quarter, is rechargeable and is designed to provide 10 years of pain management without removal. Read Summary > -
Physical activity may be natural OA treatment
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/103383.php Read Summary > -
Research your meds on the Treatments tab
Our new Treatments tab makes it easier for you to find articles on the specific medications you take. Read Summary > -
"Formularies" can change the doctor's orders
If you have health insurance that includes prescription drug coverage, the pharmacy card in your wallet gives your insurance company more power over your prescriptions than you may realize. It allows the insurer--not your pharmacy--to set the price of your prescription. Find out why and what you can do about it. Read Summary > -
Seaweed extract may ease OA
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?n=84442-marigot-red-seaweed-osteoarthritis-trace-minerals Read Summary > -
Back pain treatments that work
http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0421/088.html Read Summary > -
Video: New treatments for OA of the knee
http://www.healthcentral.com/osteoarthritis/solution/?ic=506024 Read Summary > -
Experts link Celebrex dosages and heart risks
An analysis of studies involving the arthritis drug Celebrex showed higher doses of the drug are associated with an increasing risk of heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New med for OA of the knee
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00521989 Read Summary > -
Boomers are the new 'hip-op' generation
Statistics suggest that more and more Baby Boomers are getting hip replacements to ease the pain and reduced mobility caused by osteoarthritis and other conditions. Read Summary > -
New device could ease chronic back, leg pain
A new surgical implant known as a TFAS device may allow doctors to stabilize patients' spines without sacrificing function. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Naproxcinod for OA of the hip
To study the efficacy and safety of Naproxcinod vs. Placebo and Naproxen in the treatment of signs and symptoms of Osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Car features may help drivers' pain, reduced ability
Experts at auto club AAA have compiled a list of vehicle features that can help drivers adapt to the visual, physical, and mental changes that people frequently encounter as they age. Read Summary > -
Study: ACL tears in seniors worth fixing
A small new study suggests that older adults who suffer ACL tears in their knees recover as well from surgical repair of these injuries as younger people. Read Summary > -
Study: MRI unnecessary to diagnose knee OA
Osteoarthritis (OA) is known as the "wear and tear" arthritis, effecting millions of people. Read Summary > -
Study finds gender bias in knee replacements
MONDAY, March 10 (HealthDay News) -- Women with knee pain are less likely than men to be recommended for total knee replacement surgery, says a Canadian study that suggests gender bias may be a factor Read Summary > -
Putting back pain behind you
(CBS) Back pain is among the most common medical problems. Millions of Americans deal with it daily. But structural issues with bones, muscles, and more are only part of the back-pain equation. Read Summary > -
Walking, biking best for new knees
THURSDAY, March 6 (HealthDay News) -- The thousands of Americans who undergo knee replacement surgeries each year may want to put away their tennis rackets and get back on their bikes, a new study sho Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is that pain arthritis or bursitis?
By Paul G. Donohue, M.D.To Your Good HealthMarch 03, 2008 6:00 AM Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Fentora for breakthrough pain
Call for people ages 18 years to 80 years who suffer breakthrough pain related to a chronic pain to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Suboxone patch for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have chronic pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Cars, commuting may cause back pain
Americans' commutes are getting longer, and it's leading to more and more cases of lower back pain, experts say. Read Summary > -
Which OA treatments work best?
Experts have compiled their recommendations for the best treatments for osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Treatment options for OA
(HealthDay News) - Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints. It can make movement difficult and painful. Read Summary > -
Taking multiple pain meds may have risks
A new U.S. study reports that people who take more than one NSAID to control pain may have poorer health-related quality of life. Read Summary > -
Study: New med relieves OA pain as well as oxycodone
Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson has applied for approval of tapentadol with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Read Summary > -
Study: Glucosamine doesn't help hip arthritis
A new study in the Netherlands found that the popular joint supplement had no measurable effect on pain and function in patients with OA of the hip. Read Summary > -
Non-invasive scans could diagnose OA earlier
Israeli and American scientists have discovered a way to refine current MRI scans so that OA and other conditions can be diagnosed earlier, they say. Read Summary > -
Back pain spending is up--but relief isn't
The largest surge in spending for back pain was for medications, researchers say. Read Summary > -
'Icy Hot' products recalled for burn hazard
The maker of 'Icy Hot' heat-therapy pain treatments is recalling the product after receiving reports of burns among some users. Read Summary > -
Antidepressants don't ease back pain
A review of 10 studies has found that antidepressants aren't any better at relieving back pain than a placebo. Read Summary > -
NSAIDs no better than acetaminophen for back pain
WEDNESDAY, Jan. Read Summary > -
Height genes linked to osteoarthritis risk
Shortness of stature and extreme tallness have long been known to be a risk factor for OA. Read Summary > -
Healing Heel Pain
It's not unusual for your feet to feel a little run down at the end of a long day, but when feet become persistently painful, there's something wrong. Heel pain is one of the most common complaints when it comes to sore feet and it can be debilitating. Read More > -
Does weather affect arthritis, fibromyalgia pain?
Researchers say that though there's some link between weather and RA, OA, and fibromyalgia pain, the association isn't strong enough for weather to predict pain, or vice versa. Read Summary > -
Report: Arthritis affects 46 million Americans
Researchers say osteoarthritis cases are on the rise, while the number of people with rheumatoid arthritis is decreasing. Read Summary > -
Finger length may point to arthritis risk
Having an index finger that's shorter than the ring finger may double the risk of OA of the knee, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Naproxcinod for OA of the hip
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have OA of the hip to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
New OA med approved for use in Europe
Synvisc-One is a new single-injection treatment for OA of the knee. Read Summary > -
Expert: 'Turf toe' could become arthritis
Hallux rigidus is a degenerative form of arthritis that affects the big toe. Read Summary > -
Video: Five aggressive treatments for OA
Experts at WebMD discuss the risks and benefits of several treatments for OA. Read Summary > -
New OA med shows promise in two studies
The med--called Euflexxa--was effective at reducing the impact of knee OA pain on patients' daily lives. Read Summary > -
Group seeks revisions to OA painkiller guidelines
A review has found discrepancies and a lack of information in six sets of guidelines on the use of some painkillers. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Long-term use of new med for chronic pain
Call for adults who suffer from chronic pain to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: Topical NSAIDs work as well as tablets
New research suggests topical NSAIDs may work as well as tablet forms of the pain meds. Read Summary > -
Pine-bark med may ease knee OA pain
The new med, Pycnogenol, is an antioxidant pine extract made from the bark of the French maritime tree. Read Summary > -
Q&A: What's the best treatment for OA pain?
Dr. Paul Donohue answers a reader's question about pain-treatment options for someone with OA. Read Summary > -
Gift idea: Joint support for arthritis patients
The editors at MedTrackAlert offer this healthful, helpful gift idea for people on your holiday list. Read Summary > -
Adult stem cell OA med shows promise
The stem cell treatment, known as Chondrogen, is a preparation of adult stem cells that's injected into the knee in patients with OA. Read Summary > -
Total knee replacements OK for most patients
Researchers using a computer model found that having a total knee replacement extends people's quality-adjusted life expectancy, even among high-risk patients. Read Summary > -
Crohn's med could treat severe form of arthritis
Ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn's may both be caused by a particular gene's activity that a new Crohn's med is designed to affect. Read Summary > -
Arthritis takes major toll on the workplace
Researchers say arthritis-related disability can force people to make major changes to their workplace routines. Read Summary > -
Nearly barefoot may be best for arthritic knees
Walking barefoot or in flexible walking shoes may reduce the load on arthritic knees, which may translate to less pain. Read Summary > -
Low vitamin D levels may worsen knee OA
Researchers found that OA patients who had low levels of vitamin D had more pain and greater difficulty walking than those with adequate levels of the vitamin. Read Summary > -
Botox may ease osteoarthritis
Botox reduced pain and increased mobility in a new study, but researchers say more study is needed to confirm the results. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New med for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have OA and who have not taken opioid medications before to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
New cause of OA found
British scientists say inflammation around the places where tendons and ligaments attach to bones may be a cause of OA. Read Summary > -
Some women athletes risk weak bones
Female college athletes who participate in certain sports appear to be more at risk for bone loss, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Water workouts ease OA
Warm-water aquatic exercise reduces pain and improves function in patients with hip and knee OA, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Voltaren Gel approved for OA
Voltaren Gel is now the first topical treatment for OA. Read Summary > -
Lyrica may ease pain from knee replacement
In a recent Pfizer-funded study, the anticonvulsant Lyrica helped reduce pain and improve mobility in knee-replacement patients. Read Summary > -
Doctor answers questions about arthritis
British physician Dr. Thomas Stuttaford answers readers' questions about such arthritis conditions as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Read Summary > -
Foods that fight arthritis
Experts at MSNBC offer this list of foods that fight inflammation and may relieve arthritis symptoms. Read Summary > -
Tips for saving money on prescriptions
If your co-pay costs have gone up recently, these seven tips may help you reduce your bill at the pharmacy. Read Summary > -
Experts: Little evidence common OA treatments work
Experts say there's little evidence that a popular dietary supplement, a common surgical procedure, and injected preparations work to relieve the condition. Read Summary > -
Canada pulls COX-2 painkiller off the market
Prexige has now been taken off the market in both Australia and Canada. Read Summary > -
Heart-healthy workouts may fight OA too
Australian researchers have found a positive link between exercise and decreased risk of developing OA of the knee. Read Summary > -
Braces ease OA knee pain, expert says
Dr. Robert Molloy from the Cleveland Clinic discusses knee braces and how they can be used to control OA pain. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Tapentadol vs. oxycodone for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: 8 mind-body treatments effective in older pain patients
A new study looked at such mind-body treatments as tai chi, yoga, muscle relaxation, hypnosis, and meditation, and it found all feasible for older adults who suffer from pain. Read Summary > -
Adlea enters new trial for knee-replacement pain
Adlea is a non-narcotic, long-acting painkiller that's injected during knee-replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
Hip replacement patients could take pill to prevent clots
Swedish scientists say a pill may work as well as a commonly used injected med to prevent blood clots in hip replacement patients. Read Summary > -
Study looks at the genetics of OA
Scientists hope to find out if genetic differences increase people's likelihood of developing OA. Read Summary > -
Study: Swelling hinders healing after knee injury
Almost 15 percent of all athletic injuries involve the meniscus, and over time, damage to this knee cartilage contributes to osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Spine Surgery: Timing Matters!
-
Study points to cause of COX-2's heart risks
New research suggests COX-2 inhibitors such as Vioxx and Celebrex may increase the risk of blood clots. Read Summary > -
Web site offers info, support for OA patients
Depuy Orthopaedics' Web site offers information on OA and hip replacement for people with OA of the hip. Read Summary > -
Experts urge physical therapy before pain meds
Physical therapists say their intervention could help reduce patients' reliance on pain meds. Read Summary > -
OA patients should use common pain meds, experts say
In a new editorial, doctors say despite their potential side effects, OA patients should be given meds such as ibuprofen and Celebrex. Read Summary > -
Prexige banned in Australia after deaths
Australian medication regulators received reports of adverse reactions--including two deaths from liver damage--in patients taking the pain med. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Naproxcinod vs. naproxen for OA
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have osteoarthritis to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: More evidence that calcitonin could prevent OA
A new animal study joins other research that suggests calcitonin prevents some signs and symptoms of OA. Read Summary > -
New pain med shows promise
Medications like this one could provide relief from inflammation without gastrointestinal or cardiovascular side effects, experts say. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Civamide cream for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years to 76 years old who have OA of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: NSAIDs lower colorectal cancer risk in OA patients
OA patients were 15 percent less likely to develop colorectal cancer than the general population. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New pain patch for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 18 years to 75 years old who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Antioxidants may protect against knee OA
Antioxidants protect cells throughout the body from accumulating oxidative damage, which has been shown to play a role in OA. Read Summary > -
Study: Adlea gives long-term OA pain relief
Adlea is an injectable medication being developed to treat osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
OA patients, women recover more slowly from knee surgery
Patients with severe OA's recovery time was so long that researchers suggested these patients shouldn't have knee surgery at all. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Fentanyl buccal tablets vs. oxycodone for chronic pain
Call for adults ages 18 years to 80 years old who have chronic pain and are opioid-tolerant to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
New OA med enters final Phase III trial
Naproxcinod is a new COX-inhibiting nitric-oxide donating (CINOD) med for the treatment of OA. Read Summary > -
Injectable OA med disappoints in new study
Hylastan was not found to be any more effective than the standard treatment of corticosteroids in the study. Read Summary > -
Voltaren cream moves forward in clinical trials
The topical form of diclofenac is designed to be an option for people who can't take oral NSAID pain meds. Read Summary > -
Agency recommends restricted use of piroxicam
The med, which is found in the painkiller Feldene, has been linked to a risk of gastrointestinal problems and serious skin reactions. Read Summary > -
Study: Remicade eases symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a painful and progressive form of inflammatory spinal arthritis that can cause spinal fusion and damage to hips and other joints. Read Summary > -
Studies: Glucosamine shows 'little benefit' against arthritis
The years-long debate about glucosamine's effectiveness continues with a new analysis of trial data. Read Summary > -
OA patients may sleep better with Avinza
When taken in the morning, the painkiller Avinza eases OA patients' pain and makes their sleep easier, longer, and more refreshing. Read Summary > -
Hand OA follows aggressive path, experts say
It only takes two years for patients to experience decreased function and increased pain, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Study: Prexige better choice for OA patients with hypertension
Prexige is approved for sale in over 25 countries overseas. Read Summary > -
Are joint supplements for you?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural substances, but experts say they're not for everyone. Read Summary > -
OA starts when people are young, expert says
There are signs of OA in young people, and one expert says it's important to know what they are and what to do about them. Read Summary > -
Exercise smarter, not harder, to relieve OA pain
Leave the 'no pain, no gain' mentality at home, Dr. Tedd Mitchell cautions, if you have OA. Read Summary > -
Researcher: New salmon calcitonin pill treats OA, not just its pain
If approved, the oral calcitonin med would be the first medication to actually slow the progression and damage of osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Orthovisc vs. corticosteroids for OA of the shoulder
Call for adults ages 25 years to 75 years who have osteoarthritis of the shoulder to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
OA pain 'abolished' in new gene therapy study
Researchers will apply to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to begin human trials with the new gene therapy next year. Read Summary > -
Celebrex, other pain meds may cancel HRT's heart benefits
Celebrex, ibuprofen, naproxen among meds that may negate the benefits of hormone replacement therapy, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Study: Celebrex+Nexium reduces GI bleeding
Patients who were given Nexium with the painkiller had no GI-bleeding events over the course of a recent study. Read Summary > -
Tips for dealing with osteoarthritis
Experts at the U.S. National Library of Medicine offer tips for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New OA med's effect on stomach ulcers
Call for adults ages 18 years to 75 years who have osteoarthritis to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Experimental OA cream performs well in trials
The cream, called Indaflex, is a topical form of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. Read Summary > -
Arthritis disability eased by coping skills, counseling
Research suggests that early intervention with therapy and specific coping skills can reduce the psychological impact of arthritis. Read Summary > -
Tart cherries may ease arthritis
Arthritis sufferers may find relief from an anti-inflammatory compound in cherries, new studies suggest. Read Summary > -
Report: Number of arthritis patients, cost of their care soaring
Researchers estimate that one in every five Americans now has arthritis. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Celebrex vs. NSAIDs in at-risk OA and RA patients
Call for adults with OA or RA who have or at risk for developing cardiovascular disease to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
FDA rejects Arcoxia
Arcoxia is in the same class of med as Vioxx, which was pulled from the U.S. market in 2004. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Dealing With Osteoarthritis
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can help Read More > -
Clinical trial: Long-term safety of a new med for chronic pain
Call for adults with chronic pain from low-back pain or osteoarthritis of the knee or hip who are dissatisfied with their current pain meds to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New pain med for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have OA of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Expert: Arthritis self-diagnosis a risky choice
Is it RA, OA, or gout? An arthritis expert says getting the right diagnosis is the key to pain relief. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Can You Recognize Osteoarthritis Symptoms?
Joint pain, stiffness are most prevalent Read More > -
FDA advisory panel rejects new COX-2 painkiller
Arcoxia, a COX-2 inhibitor, is in the same class of meds as Vioxx, Bextra, and Celebrex. Read Summary > -
Arthritis affects one in every three patients' ability to work
Arthritis affects 46 million people in the United States alone, and one in every three patients experience problems with their work because of the condition. Read Summary > -
'Push-button' Enbrel now available in Canada
The SureClick device allows patients to self-administer 50 mg/mL of Enbrel while keeping the needle hidden. Read Summary > -
Ibuprofen boosts heart risks in some OA patients
Researchers say that ibuprofen may interfere with the protective effects of low-dose aspirin, which many high-risk patients take. Read Summary > -
Late-stage trials begin for new OA med
Naproxicinod is intended to treat OA symptoms without raising affecting blood pressure. Read Summary > -
New tests begin for 'GI friendly' pain med
The new med, HZT-501, combines ibuprofen and the active ingredient in Pepcid. Read Summary > -
Variations in cartilage gene linked to OA
Researchers say the discovery 'opens the window' to developing more treatments for OA. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Safety of a new med for treating chronic pain
Call for adults who suffer from chronic pain due to lower back pain or osteoarthritis of the knee or hip to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of a new med for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 50 years to 75 years who have OA of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New pain med for OA patients awaiting joint-replacement surgery
Call for adults ages 18 to 80 who have osteoarthritis and are awaiting total or partial joint-replacement surgery of the hip or knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Electric knee pad may ease osteoarthritis pain
Researchers say the pad is the first non-invasive treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. Read Summary > -
Four ways to age without aching
Experts at UCLA Medical Center give a list of 4 things you can do to help ease the pains associated with growing older. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of a new med on OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 18 to 75 who have OA of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Celadrin eases OA symptoms in new study
Celadrin, also known as Inflame Away-Celadrin, is a non-prescription med that comes in both a pill and cream form. Read Summary > -
Are cherries the new superfruit?
A report reviews the health benefits of cherries, from fighting insulin resistance and regulating sleep. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Does Celebrex cause fewer GI problems than other NSAIDs?
Call for adults ages 55 and older who have osteoarthritis to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Tramadol may help OA patients get a better night's sleep
Patients who took Tramadol experienced reduced pain and better sleep than those who took a placebo. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Voltaren gel for OA of the knee
Call for adults ages 35 and older who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Experimental cartilage grafts could rebuild damaged joints
Neocartilage is entering clinical trials to see if it can rebuild cartilage damaged by injury or arthritis. Read Summary > -
Osteoarthritis drug Pennsaid delayed by FDA
Pennsaid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Citrofen may help OA patients manage symptoms and lose weight
Citrofen is made from extracts of orange peel and Phellodendron tree bark. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Cymbalta for OA knee pain
Call for adults ages 40 and older who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Exercise has no impact on OA, study suggests
Seniors can safely remain active and not increase their risk of OA, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Long-term safety of a new drug for chronic pain
Call for adults with low-back pain or osteoarthritis of the hip or knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Kadian NT in patients with OA of the hip or knee
Call for adults ages 21 and older who have osteoarthritis of the knee or hip to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of a new drug on osteoarthritis of the knee
Call for adults ages 40 to 75 who have osteoarthritis of the knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Orthovisc being tested for OA-related shoulder pain
Orthovisc contains the highest available concentration of the pain reliever hyaluronic acid currently on the market. Read Summary > -
Cartilage discovery may bring new arthritis treatments
Scientists have long known that cartilage was made up of fibers, but they didn't know how these fibers came together to form the joint supports. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Use of Vicodin CR in relieving osteoarthritis pain
Call for adults ages 21 to 80 who have osteoarthritis of the hip or knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Q&A: What's the difference between OA and RA?
A doctor responds to a reader's question about the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Read Summary > -
Swedish massage may help people with osteoarthritis
Researchers say the study's results are good news for the many patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs to control osteoarthritis pain. Read Summary > -
Smoking linked to more severe osteoarthritis in men
Men who smoke suffer more knee pain and more cartilage loss than men who do not smoke, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Humira approved for treating psoriatic arthritis joint damage
Humira can now be used to slow joint damage in people with psoriatic arthritis. Read Summary > -
Actonel may help beat osteoarthritis too
Researchers say that Actonel's success in their study may point to the possibility of bone-loss drugs' use against arthritis. Read Summary > -
NSAIDs and COX-2s similar for heart-attack risk, different for other risks
Researchers performed a head-to-head comparison of an NSAID and a COX-2 to study the rates of side effects in the drugs. Read Summary > -
Canada, Europe approve new COX-2 painkiller
Though Prexige is approved for use in more than 25 countries, Celebrex is the only COX-2 inhibitor available in the United States. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Long-term safety of a new drug for chronic pain
Call for adults who suffer from low-back pain or osteoarthritis of the knee or hip to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Arthritis self-care programs may not work, study suggests
British researchers found that self-care programs help relieve anxiety but do not help pain and other symptoms of the condition. Read Summary > -
Acupuncture, curry extract may ease arthritis pain
Medical acupuncture and turmeric could offer relief to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients. Read Summary > -
Prozac may increase bone mass in RA patients, study finds
The common antidepressant was found to stimulate new bone growth in mice. Read Summary > -
Arthritis drugs have the same pros and cons--with one exception
A government review finds little difference between NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors for risks and pain relief. Read Summary > -
New engineered drug may give long-lasting arthritis relief
A modified drug compound could act as "drug depots" in the body to gradually release pain-relief medicine. Read Summary > -
Effective drugs for inflammatory conditions like RA, Crohn's
Staff members at The Mayo Clinic discuss TNF-alpha inhibitor drugs like Humira, Enbrel, and Remicade. Read Summary > -
Common childhood sports injury can lead to early osteoarthritis
Some athletes with ACL injuries will develop osteoarthritis in their late teens or early twenties. Read Summary > -
Things to consider when deciding if statins are right for you
Statins have been labeled "wonder drugs," but they do have risks. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Use of Orudis in treating osteoarthritis of the knee
Call for adults with osteoarthritis in both knees to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
FDA approves Humira for ankylosing spondylitis
The FDA has now approved Humira for use in three inflammatory arthritis conditions. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Preventing NSAID-related gastric ulcers
Call for adults who use NSAIDs and have gastric or duodenal ulcers to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Some patients going back on Celebrex after weighing risks
Celebrex is currently the only COX-2 inhibitor on the U.S. market. Read Summary > -
FDA approves generic Mobic
Mobic is widely used for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Read Summary > -
Data on COX-2 inhibitor Arcoxia gives good--and bad--news
Celebrex is currently the only COX-2 inhibitor approved for use in the United States. Read Summary > -
Users cautioned as new COX-2 hits Australian market
Australia's National Prescribing Service has recommended that patients try other painkillers first before using the drug. Read Summary > -
Two New Generic Alternatives to Osteoarthritis Drug Approved
Alternatives to Mobic receive FDA approval. Read More > -
Clinical trial: Safety and effectiveness of OraVescent fetanyl for chronic pain
Call for adults with lower back pain, migraines, diabetic neuropathies, or osteoarthritis who suffer breakthrough pain to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Concerns about NSAID, COX-2 safety leads many to "suffer in silence"
One researcher states that doctors want to clear up confusion, concern, because "pain greatly impairs quality of life." Read Summary > -
First hospital admission for heart failure more likely for NSAID users
Patients taking the NSAID indomethacin seemed to have the highest risk of being admitted to the hospital for heart failure. Read Summary > -
NSAIDs dangerous for heart-attack survivors, new studies suggest
Detrimental effects of NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, found with even short-term use. Read Summary > -
Ibuprofen, diclofenac linked to increased heart attack and stroke risk
Both drugs are often given in high doses to control chronic pain, arthritis. Read Summary > -
Celebrex+Tarceva triples response rates in lung cancer patients, study finds
Celebrex inhibits COX-2 in the body, a compound that is particularly active in lung cancer patients. Read Summary > -
Paxil, other antidepressants may cause internal bleeding
Study finds internal gastrointestinal bleeding caused by SSRI antidepressants is similar to bleeding caused by some painkillers. Read Summary > -
Celebrex raises blood pressure, but NSAIDs raise it more
Water and salt retention in both types of drugs cause increased blood pressure, swelling. Read Summary > -
Vioxx data's contradictions give some doctors worries about Celebrex
The appearance of mixed messages in Vioxx data has some doctors worried the same risks may surface for Celebrex. Read Summary > -
Does glucosamine/chondroitin provide real pain relief?
Though a recent study finds the supplements no more effective than a placebo, some doctors and patients continue to believe in their ability to relieve pain. Read Summary > -
Many seniors who took Vioxx suffered heart attacks early, study finds
Vioxx data might provide clues about how COX-2 inhibitors like Celebrex may be linked to cardiovascular risks. Read Summary > -
Government report slams FDA for poor monitoring
A General Accounting Office report says the FDA is not doing enough to monitor the safety of drugs already on the market. Read Summary > -
Study finds significant conflicts of interest for FDA board members
Committee members with ties to the makers of Bextra and Vioxx voted overwhelmingly to keep those drugs on the market. Read Summary > -
Scientists discover why COX-2 inhibitors are bad for the heart
Researchers have also found a possible alternative to anti-inflammatories like Celebrex. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Continuous vs. intermittent use of Celebrex for osteoarthritis
Call for people ages 18 years to 80 years who take Celebrex for osteoarthritis of the hip or knee to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Celebrex can help fight colon cancer, Pfizer says
Celebrex reduces the amount of COX-2 in the colon, a major cause of tumors. Read Summary > -
Celebrex prevents colon cancer, but raises risk of heart disease
Manufacturer states that incidence of cardiovascular events is consistent with current warning labels. Read Summary > -
Nexium reduces risk of stomach ulcers for patients taking anti-inflammatories
Scientists studied patients who regularly take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as a COX-2 inhibitor. Read Summary > -
Doctor defends glucosamine as alternative to Celebrex
A letter to the editor of the Albany Times Union newspaper. Read Summary > -
Sodium hyaluronate may be effective substitute for Celebrex
A study examines the use of sodium hyaluronate for shoulder pain. Read Summary > -
Price check: Protonix
Current prices through online providers. Read Summary > -
Nonprescription alternatives for arthritis pain
A doctor reviews alternatives to Celebrex and other medications. Read Summary > -
Study says Celebrex better than glucosamine, chondroitin at reducing pain
Celebrex works better in those with milder symptoms. Read Summary > -
Expert criticizes study of glucosamine, chondroitin, and Celebrex
Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine is flawed, says doctor. Read Summary > -
Date set for first Celebrex lawsuit
Stroke survivor is first plaintiff against Celebrex in U.S. Read Summary > -
Celebrex nearly doubles heart-attack risk, study finds
A review of past studies shows that the COX-2 inhibitor could be harmful. Read Summary > -
Fewer stomach problems with celecoxib than with other NSAIDs
No difference in cardiac events found. Read Summary > -
Merck wins first federal Vioxx case
Jury rules that Vioxx did not cause 2001 death of Florida man. Read Summary > -
Arthritis may indicate higher risk for artery problems
Inflammation may harm cardiovascular system. Read Summary > -
Recipe: Bone soup provides multiple benefits
Herbalist recommends a bone broth to support health. Read Summary > -
Merck knew of Vioxx risks in 2000, attorneys allege
New evidence shown in the trial over the death of Florida man who used Vioxx. Read Summary > -
Bextra permanently banned
Drug has greater risks than Celebrex or Vioxx. Read Summary > -
Genes are a factor in COX-2 side effects
Relationship may help determine potential for relief--and side effects. Read Summary > -
Alternatives to Celebrex, Vioxx not without risks
An overview of the risks associated with switching from COX-2 inhibitors, such as Bextra, Celebrex, and Vioxx, to over-the-counter alternatives. Read Summary > -
Stem cells may mend osteoarthritis, researchers hope
Researchers use stem cells to rebuild damaged cartilage. Read Summary > -
Intravenous treatment for rheumatoid arthritis may displace pills
The new medication is waiting for FDA approval. Read Summary > -
NSAIDs better than Tylenol for osteoarthritis pain
A review of 15 clinical trials finds that drugs such as celecoxib (Celebrex) provide more relief. Read Summary >
