(Legacy) Hunter Pain Specialists News

Reflections from the 2026 INS World Congress in Lisbon

Hunter Pain Specialists — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:03:57 GMT

Dr Russo recently attended the International Neuromodulation Society (INS) Board Meeting in Lisbon. As Past President of the Society, he joined colleagues from around the world to discuss the continued growth of neuromodulation, emerging priorities, and future opportunities for the field.

"Attended the recent International Neuromodulation Society Board Meeting in Lisbon in my role as Past President of the Society. Wonderful to see the growth of neuromodulation in so many parts of the world with reports from each of the Chapter Presidents present. Much progress but much more work to do. The Society is in great hands under the current leadership of Professor Konstantin Slavin, President, and Dr Jan Vesper, President Elect. Very good news to see the creation of a patient-led advocacy community, Neuromodcommunity.com, being put together by Sophie Halliwell and others. This is a much-needed initiative in our space."

Dr Russo's reflections highlight both the remarkable global progress being made in neuromodulation and the importance of continued collaboration, leadership, and patient advocacy as the field continues to evolve.

What the evidence shows about Cannabinoids for Fibromyalgia

Hunter Pain Specialists — Thu, 14 May 2026 04:30:24 GMT

A/Prof Marc Russo and colleagues recently conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, published in Pain Physician, examining the use of cannabinoids in the management of fibromyalgia-related pain.

The Evolving Role of Medicinal Cannabis

Hunter Pain Specialists — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 02:49:05 GMT

Medicinal cannabis has become a major topic of public and political conversation, with growing interest from patients and increasing regulatory support. The key question, however, is not just whether it is available, but whether it is appropriate and who may genuinely benefit from it. While more clinical trials are still needed to fully understand its effectiveness and potential side effects, early evidence suggests medicinal cannabis may play a role for certain patients, particularly those experiencing specific types of nerve pain. As research continues, the use of medicinal cannabis remains an evolving area, shaped by emerging evidence and a clearer understanding of where it can be most effective. Ultimately, its use should be guided by careful evaluation to ensure the right patients receive the most benefit.

Pain Management Beyond Opiods

Hunter Pain Specialists — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:56:20 GMT

Traditionally, pain clinics in the 1960s and 1970s had limited treatment options, with morphine and cortisone injections forming the backbone of care. This approach evolved into a rapid increase in opioid use throughout the 1990s and 2000s, which over time revealed serious challenges. Long-term opioid use has been linked to issues such as dependence, tolerance, respiratory depression, constipation, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, and cognitive side effects, prompting a major shift in how pain is managed today. As a result, there is growing emphasis on alternatives to traditional opioids, including non-medication approaches and newer analgesic agents that aim to provide effective pain relief without the risks associated with stronger opioid treatments.

Celebrating Mel: 10 Years at Hunter Pain Specialists

Hunter Pain Specialists — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:22:03 GMT

Hunter Pain Specialists is pleased to acknowledge a significant milestone for our team. We are delighted to congratulate Mel on becoming the sixth member of our staff to achieve entry into the Ten Year Club.

Sports Injury Management

Hunter Pain Specialists — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:21:28 GMT

Sports injuries are an inevitable part of athletic life, and understanding how to manage them is key to recovery and performance. Musculoskeletal injuries occur when muscles, tendons, ligaments, or nerves are pushed beyond their current capacity. Muscle injuries are the most common, often happening when training exceeds strength or mobility; small microtraumas are normal and help muscles grow, but larger strains require physiotherapy to manage symptoms, restore mobility, and rebuild strength safely. Tendon injuries, or tendinopathies, need graded loading, starting with simple movements and progressing to sport-specific exercises. Ligament injuries, usually caused by trauma, require longer healing and focus on regaining movement, strength, and stability. Nerve injuries can affect sensation, strength, and coordination, so rehabilitation focuses on restoring function, maintaining conditioning, and gradually returning to sport. Across all injury types, a tailored physiotherapy program is essential for recovery and reducing the risk of re-injury.

Platelet-rich plasma

Hunter Pain Specialists — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:20:45 GMT

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment used to relieve pain from joints, tendons, and sometimes nerves. The procedure involves taking a small sample of the patient’s blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate its components. The platelets and growth factors are concentrated and injected into the affected area, acting as an anti-inflammatory to reduce pain. While PRP does not regenerate joints or tendons, it is considered an effective analgesic treatment, often providing pain relief for up to 12 months. Repeat injections may be needed over time, and PRP is often preferred over corticosteroids or other injections such as hyaluronic acid due to its longer-lasting effects.

Spinal cord stimulation for neuropathic pain

Hunter Pain Specialists — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:10:14 GMT

How intrathecal pumps help manage chronic pain

Hunter Pain Specialists — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:32:52 GMT

Why research matters for pain management

Hunter Pain Specialists — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 04:56:47 GMT