High Uric Acid: Beyond Gout
Did you know that high uric acid can create very different clinical presentations: the classic exquisite pain in a single joint or generalised muscle soreness?
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GLP-1 Agonists: Surgical Benefits and Long-Term Musculoskeletal Risks
Research presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has highlighted a complex relationship between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as semaglutide, and musculoskeletal health. While these medications provide clear benefits for weight loss and glycaemic control, the sources indicate they may simultaneously offer short-term postoperative advantages…
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Tendinopathy: The New Science of Pain and Repair
This summary is based on the Nature Reviews Disease Primers article “Tendinopathy” by Neal L. Millar et al. (published in 2021). It outlines the current scientific understanding of the condition’s pathology, diagnosis, and management. Overview Tendinopathy is a complex, multifaceted clinical syndrome characterised by persistent pain, localised swelling, and impaired performance. It is a spectrum of changes that occur…
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Flexible but Flawed? New Research on Joint Hypermobility
If you’ve ever been called “double-jointed” or find yourself easily performing party tricks with your elbows and thumbs, you might have Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH). While often seen as an advantage in dance or gymnastics, a recent study published in Scientific Reports (part of the Nature Portfolio) dives into the hidden costs—and surprising benefits—of being hypermobile. The…
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Revolutionising Cellular Regeneration and Longevity With AI
The article “Accelerating life sciences research,” published by OpenAI on 22 August 2025, outlines a significant collaboration between OpenAI and Retro Biosciences aimed at advancing life sciences research through the application of artificial intelligence. The partnership has resulted in the development of GPT-4b micro, a specialised AI model derived from a scaled-down version of OpenAI’s…
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The Complex Landscape of Pain: Why Our Experiences Differ
I. Introduction: The Enigma of Pain – Setting the StagePain, a seemingly universal experience, presents a profound paradox: while it serves as a vital alarm system, its intensity and impact vary wildly among individuals, even in response to similar injuries. It is a phenomenon that is both deeply personal and globally ubiquitous, prompting a deeper…
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Manage Longstanding Low Back Pain by Spending Time in Nature
Study Overview The article “Being away from everything”: Exploring the importance of access to nature for individuals living with chronic low back pain, published in the Journal of Pain, investigates how nature can aid in managing chronic low back pain (cLBP). It involved ten semi-structured interviews with people averaging 50.1 years old and living with…
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New Hope For Joint Repair
A recent scientific breakthrough by Chen at al. could significantly improve how we treat cartilage damage — a common problem in joints like knees and hips that often leads to long-term pain and arthritis. Cartilage is notoriously slow to heal, largely because its cells (called chondrocytes) have limited access to energy. To tackle this, researchers…
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Chronic Low Back Pain, Bacterial Infection, and Antibiotic Treatment
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a leading cause of disability globally, affecting millions and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems due to its complex aetiology and limited effective treatments (Gilligan et al., 2021). Recent research has sparked debate by suggesting that low-grade bacterial infections, particularly involving Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), may contribute to CLBP…
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Antibiotics For Low Back Pain?
Persica Pharmaceuticals has developed PP353, an intradiscal injection designed to treat chronic low back pain linked to bacterial infections, particularly cases associated with Modic changes (pathological alterations in vertebrae seen on MRI). PP353 combines: Recent Study & Findings Potential Impact
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Cold Water Immersion and Health
A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE aimed to evaluate the psychological, cognitive, and physiological effects of cold-water immersion (CWI) in healthy adults. The study synthesised data from 11 randomised controlled trials encompassing 3,177 participants who engaged in CWI through methods such as cold showers, ice baths, or plunges in water temperatures at or…
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Processed Meats Increase Risk of Dementia
A recent study published in Neurology on 11 February 2025, led by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has investigated the relationship between long-term red meat consumption and the risk of dementia and cognitive decline in U.S. adults. The study utilised data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, encompassing approximately 170,000 participants…
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Food Choices Affect Pain
Introduction Chronic pain is a widespread issue that significantly impacts quality of life and healthcare systems. While obesity is a well-documented risk factor for chronic pain, recent evidence suggests that other factors, such as diet quality, may also play a role. A recent study explores the relationship between diet quality and body pain in adults,…
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Changes in Gait, Balance and Strength with Aging
The recent article “Age-related changes in gait, balance, and strength parameters: A cross-sectional study” published in PLOS One by Rezaei et al. examines the impact of aging on various physical performance measures such as gait (walking patterns), balance, and muscular strength. The study employs a cross-sectional design, meaning it analyses data collected at one specific…
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Rugby, Concussion and Neurodegenerative Disease
The article “Concussion-Related Biomarker Variations in Retired Rugby Players and Implications for Neurodegenerative Disease Risk: The UK Rugby Health Study“ delves into the long-term health impacts of concussions on retired rugby players, particularly focusing on the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The study aims to explore the relationship between repeated…
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The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
Wright el al. have recently published a review article on the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause – a complex issue that affects millions of women worldwide. The Role of Estrogen in Musculoskeletal Health Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, muscle mass and tendon structure. It helps to: When estrogen levels decline during menopause, these processes…
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Inflammatory Gene Found
Researchers have identified a previously overlooked genetic region linked to chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis. Surprisingly, this DNA segment, often termed a “gene desert” due to its lack of protein-coding genes, has been shown to play a pivotal role in driving inflammation. The study, published in Nature, reveals that this region influences the activity of a gene…
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Can Turmeric Cause Liver Disease?
Dina Halegoua-DeMarzio et al. have analysed data from the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN). It suggests a growing risk of liver damage associated with turmeric consumption in the US. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings: Overall, the study highlights a potential link between turmeric consumption and severe liver injury, particularly for those with the…
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Do Ketogenic Diets Trigger Aging?
A new study published in Science Advances has investigated the potential downsides of ketogenic diets. While keto diets are popular for weight loss and some health conditions, this research suggests they may also trigger cellular aging in vital organs. Key findings of the study: Overall, the study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding…
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Can Osteoarthritis Be Predicted?
A study published last month in Science Advances followed a group of women over an 8-year period and investigated the development of knee osteoarthritis (OA) through the lens of molecular markers in the blood. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings: Overall, the study highlights the potential of molecular biomarkers in identifying and understanding OA…
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Are Microplastics A Health Concern?
An article published in Nature by science journalist Max Kozlov describes the results of a recent study that has found a potential link between microplastics and serious health issues like heart attack, stroke, and even death. Here’s a breakdown of the key points: It’s important to note that this is the first study of its…
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Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Health
A New Scientist article published last year delves into the exciting potential of the vagus nerve to transform health. The vagus nerve, the longest nerve in the body, acts as a superhighway, connecting the brain to numerous organs like the heart, lungs, and stomach. Recent research is unveiling its crucial role in regulating various bodily…
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Vegan Versus Ketogenic Diets
Imagine switching up your meals in a big way, ditching meat and dairy for a vegan lifestyle or diving deep into the world of low-carb keto. What happens to your body’s defences, your trusty immune system? A recent study published in Nature Medicine delves into this very question, comparing the impacts of these two popular…
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Vitamin D and Musculoskeletal Health
Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” is a critical component in maintaining optimal musculoskeletal health. It plays a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of healthy bones and muscles. This essay explores the intricate relationship between vitamin D and musculoskeletal health, focusing on its impact on bone density, muscle function, inflammation,…
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Can Blood Tests Assess Aging?
A recent study published by Oh, H.SH., Rutledge, J., Nachun, D. et al. in Nature has revealed that the aging of individual organs can be assessed using protein levels in blood plasma. This method, known as plasma proteomics, has been shown to be able to predict mortality and disease risk, and to identify individuals with accelerated…
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Nutritional Supplements for Joint Health
The health of our joints is essential for maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle. However, as people age, joint problems such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and general wear and tear become more common. In this context, dietary supplements have gained popularity as a means to support and enhance joint health. This essay delves deeper into…
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Thyroid and Parathyroid Dysfunctions and the Musculoskeletal System
The thyroid and parathyroid glands are critical endocrine organs responsible for regulating a myriad of physiological processes
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New Treatment for Autoimmune Diseases?
Autoimmune diseases are a group of chronic conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. There is no cure for most autoimmune diseases, and treatments are often aimed at suppressing the immune system, which can leave patients vulnerable to infections. In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing vaccines…
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The Great Debate: Stretching Before or After Exercise?
Physical activity and exercise are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, the question of when to incorporate stretching into your routine has likely crossed your mind. Should you stretch before or after exercise? The debate over the optimal timing for stretching has been ongoing…
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Can Aging Be Reversed?
A paper published a few days ago by Yang et al. suggests that aging can be reversed! Here is a summary of the research paper: The study is a significant advance in the field of aging research. It provides new insights into the mechanisms of cellular aging and suggests that it may be possible to…
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Cholesterol and Musculoskeletal Health
High cholesterol is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease and stroke. It is primarily associated with the development of atherosclerosis, characterised by the accumulation of cholesterol-laden plaques in arterial walls (Libby et al., 2019; Virmani et al., 2020). However, recent studies have uncovered a relationship between cholesterol metabolism and…
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Diabetes and Musculoskeletal Health
Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, encompasses two main types: type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Both types have significant implications for various organ systems, including the musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal problems are commonly observed in individuals with diabetes, and understanding the underlying mechanisms is crucial for effective management. This article provides a comprehensive…
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The Physiology of Sleep
Sleep is a crucial aspect of human biology, with significant impacts on overall health and wellbeing. There are two main stages of sleep, NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) and REM (Rapid Eye Movement), each with their own distinct characteristics and benefits. During NREM sleep, the body secretes hormones such as: During REM sleep, the body secretes…
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The Physiology of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing processes. The practice has gained popularity as a complementary therapy for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, digestive disorders, and depression. The mechanisms behind acupuncture’s therapeutic effects are not fully…
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Sweeteners Increase Cardiovascular Risk
Earlier this year I wrote about the results of a large study evidencing the association between artificial sweeteners and cancer risk. Debras et al. used the same cohort (Nutrient-Sante) of over 100,000 participants. But this time, they looked at the association between artificial sweeteners and cardiovascular disease risk. The study was published in The British…
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Vitamin D Decreases Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a well-known disease risk factor affecting both physical and mental health. One of the most common ways of measuring inflammation is by measuring levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood. Zhou and Hypponen, from the Australian Center for Precision Health, recently conducted a study on the link between Vitamin D and…
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Vitamin D and Alzheimer’s Disease
Unfortunately there is currently an absence of curative and preventative interventions for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Last year, Panza et al. reviewed the research on the links between vitamin D and AD. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with an accelerated decline in cognitive functions. They have also been associated with the development of chronic…
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Eating For Health And Longevity
Valter Longo et al. recently published a paper that examined research on the relationships between nutrition, health and longevity. Here are some of the main components of a longevity diet: mid to high carbohydrate intake (45-60%) – mostly non-refined fat intake (25-35%) – mostly plant-based low protein intake (10-15%) – mostly plant-based but includes regular…
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Sweeteners Increase Cancer Risk
The use of artificial sweeteners by the food industry has become ubiquitous. They reduce the sugar content whilst still retaining the sweet pleasant taste. However, the safety of artificial sweeteners has been questioned, particularly regarding carcinogenicity. Last month, Charlotte Debras et al. published the results of a study looking into the link between the consumption…
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Low Back Pain Could Affect How We Eat
A recent study by Lin et al. uncovered a relationship between longstanding low back pain and a preference for fat-rich foods. The authors found that the nucleus accumbens may be linked to the change in eating behaviour. The nucleus accumbens is a part of the brain that plays an important role in reward and pleasure…
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Fat Injections For Plantar Fasciitis?
Beth Gusenoff et al. have just published the results of their study looking into the effects of fat cell injections for patients with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a common musculoskeletal condition that can lead to inflammation, degeneration and thickening of the plantar fascia. Patients usually present with heel pain during weight bearing activities. The…
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Covid-19 Research Update
Gu et al. (Nature) recently published a paper explaining the association between Covid-19 and inflammatory and blood coagulation disorders involving platelets and endothelial cells. This is probably why patients with cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, obesity and ageing have been particularly vulnerable to Covid-19. Malas et al. have published a meta-analysis of 42 studies…
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Vegans At Greater Risk of Fracture?
About a month ago a worrying study was published by researchers working on the EPIC-Oxford Study. They looked into the differences in fracture risk between meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans. It was done by following a group of around 55,000 men and women for an average of 17 years. It should be said that most…
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Breathe Through Your Nose
This post is inspired by “Following Your Nose: Nasal Function and Energy” by Rudolph Ballentine (in Science of Breath, 1992). The nose is the most restricted part of the respiratory tract and creates 150% more work than mouth breathing. So why should we breathe through our noses? Because the nose fulfils several crucial respiratory functions…
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“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.” Rumi
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Nutrition, Immunity and COVID-19
Our immune system protects us from pathogens like viruses, bacteria, cancerous cells, etc. and it can be separated into 2 distinct branches: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. Our innate immune system uses cells such as macrophages, neutrophils and mast cells to mount a fast, generic response to pathogens. Inflammation is the…
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Early Feeding Improves Pre-Diabetes and Blood Pressure
About a year ago Sutton et al. published a study that showed that intermittent fasting has benefits that are independent of food intake and weight loss. Their trial tested the effects of 5 weeks of “early time-restricted feeding” (eTRF) on 8 men with pre-diabetes. The subjects were asked to start breakfast between 6:30-8:30 and to…
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Slow Breathing Regulates High Blood Pressure
Several years ago I wrote a few articles showing that exercise, yoga and other strategies were helpful at regulating high blood pressure (BP). Even small reductions in blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. The risks associated with hypertension are continuous – this means that with each 2mm…
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“Ever since happiness heard your name, it has been running through the streets trying to find you… …let it catch up.” Hafez (modified by Joseph Goldstein)
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Meal Times Crucial For Weight Loss
A few months ago Lopez-Minguez et al. reviewed studies looking at the effect of meal times on obesity and metabolic risk. Their findings are summed up in the following points: skipping breakfast is linked to obesity eating a large breakfast (within 2hrs of waking) decreases the probability of being obese by 50% a late lunch…
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Could Sunlight Aid Weight Loss?
Nayak et al. have recently published the findings of their fascinating research into the effects of light on fat metabolism in mice. Animals have adapted to use light in various ways. The most obvious is our sense of sight – it creates images in the brain through the detection of photons by light sensitive proteins…
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“Keep your eye fixed on the way to the top, but don’t forget to look right in front of you. The last step depends on the first. Don’t think you’re there just because you see the summit. Watch your footing, be sure of the next step, but don’t let that distract you from the highest…
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Soft Drinks May Cause Menopausal Hip Fractures
A study published this month in the journal Menopause looked into the relationships between carbonated soft drink consumption, osteoporosis (hip and lumbar spine) and incidental hip fractures. For almost 12 years Kremer et al. followed over 72,000 postmenopausal women from the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study. The results showed no associations between soft drink consumption…
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Excess Dietary Salt Leads To Cognitive Impairment
Faraco et al. recently discovered mechanisms by which salt-rich diets can lead to cognitive dysfunction in mice. An increase in dietary salt led to a deficiency of nitric oxide in cerebral blood vessels. As nitric oxide is a vasodilator, the reduced levels resulted in decreased cerebral blood flow. In addition, nitric oxide deficiency causes the…
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Loving-Kindness Meditation Slows Aging
A recent study by Le Nguyen et al. published in Psychoneuroendocrinology has looked at the effect of loving-kindness meditation on telomore length. Loving-Kindness is a Buddhist meditation that focuses on sending good wishes and kindness to ourselves and others by silently repeating a series of mantras. Telomeres sit at the end of chromosomes and protect…
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Meditation and the Brain
Meditation can be defined as “a family of mental training practices aimed at monitoring and regulating attention, perception, emotion and physiology” (Fox and Cahn, 2019). As with other forms of learning, meditation has the potential to change the brain (neuroplasticity). Fox and Cahn (2019) reviewed decades of meditation research in a paper entitled “Meditation and…
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Paleo Diet May Be Bad For Cardiovascular Health
Research published earlier this month in the European Journal of Nutrition questions the health benefits of the Paleolithic diet. The Paleo diet claims to mimic the diet of our ancestors. It’s high in meat, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds but avoids dairy, legumes and grains. Genoni et al. studied a group of about 100 people…
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Vagus Nerve Stimulation Reduces Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Genovese et al. recently presented the results of their research at the Annual European Congress of Rheumatology. They implanted mini neurostimulators in 14 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients that had failed to respond to anti-rheumatic medication. In the treatment groups, the vagus nerve was stimulated daily for 12 weeks. The results showed that stimulation of the…