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Sleep 101: How and Why to Sleep Better

Good sleep starts the moment you wake up in the morning, and it means more to your body, system as a whole and life experience than just going to bed at night. It is a time that you can process, rest, detoxify and release. When done right, sleep can be…

The Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation

The Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation was presented by Dr. Megan Curtis Gonzalez, Associate Director of Clinical Research in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville. This presentation provides insight on what is mindfulness, the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. In addition,…

Healthy Aging with Healthy Nutrition

Healthy Aging with Healthy Nutrition was presented by Jessica Jetton and Cynthia Whitmer of the UNF Nutrition and Dietetics Department. This presentation provides a wide range of topics that can help you adapt your nutrition habits as you age. These topics include but are not limited to learning about MyPlate,…

Mind, Body, and Healing through self Reiki and partner Reiki

Mind, Body, and Healing through self Reiki and partner Reiki is presented by Tami Anderson, RN, DNP, MBA, NE-BC, CBC. Dr. Anderson guides the audience through the most common hand positions of Reiki, educates on the origins of Reikie, and the benefits an individual can have from daily Reiki practice.

Are Nutrient Deficiencies Contributing to Your Pain?

“Are Nutrient Deficiencies Contributing to Your Pain?” is a recording of the live presentation from June 14, 2022, presented by Monisha Bhanote, MD, FCAP. Dr. Bhanote describes the relationship between pain and common nutrient deficiencies. She shares ways to help improve diet to eat your vitamins and minerals or supplement…

Tai Chi Easy (TM) for Pain Management

"Tai Chi Easy™ for Pain Management" is presented by Catherine Cerulli, M.Ed. She provides an overview of Tai Chi and Qigong and steps toward starting your home practice. She provides a breakdown of beginning postures and resources to continue to learn more.

Managing Pain Through Journaling

“Managing Pain Through Journaling” is presented by Brooke Stuart, AP, DACM. Brooke details the ins and outs of journaling and how you can use it directly to rework and enhance your reality creation to meet the criteria you have for yourself, health and well-being. Walk in with an open heart…

Tai Chi as a Pain Management Option

View the recording of this AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation presented live on May 11, 2022. “Tai Chi as a Pain Management Option” is presented by Beth Acampora, Senior Tai Chi Instructor. Beth provides an introduction to beginning a Tai Chi practice, which includes an overview of its history and…

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Pain, An Intro for the Family Medicine Provider

View the recording of our AI-PAMI Health Care Provider Presentation: “Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Pain, An Intro for the Family Medicine Provider,” originally presented on April 21, 2022. Hear from University of Washington licensed clinical psychologist, John (Drew) Sturgeon, PhD. Dr. Sturgeon provides an overview of this widely researched psychotherapeutic approach,…

Learn About Myofascial Release for Pain Management

View the recording of this AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation presented live on March 24, 2022. “Beginning a Meditation Practice for Pain Management” is presented by Brooke View the recording of this AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation presented live on April 14, 2022. “Learn About Myofascial Release for Pain Management”…

Beginning a Meditation Practice for Pain Management

View the recording of this AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation presented live on March 24, 2022. “Beginning a Meditation Practice for Pain Management” is presented by Brooke Stuart, AP, DACM of Let Go & Grow International. Dr. Stuart provides an overview of the principles of meditation, shares start-up guidance and…

An Introduction to Medical Marijuana for Older Adults Living with Pain

View the recording of this AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation presented live on February 23, 2022. “An Introduction to Medical Marijuana for Older Adults Living with Pain” was presented in collaboration with the Florida A&M University Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative. The focus is on understanding medical marijuana laws,…

An Introduction to Auricular Acupuncture for Pain Management

View the recording of our AI-PAMI Health Care Provider Presentation: “An Introduction to Auricular Acupuncture for Pain Management” originally presented on February 18, 2022. Hear from Irene Estores, MD, Medical Director of the Integrative Medicine Program at the University of Florida. Dr. Estores discusses the origination of auriculotherapy, or auricular…

Ease of Movement: Dance for Pain Management

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a collaboration with Arts for the Aging, entitled ‘Ease of Movement: Dance for Pain Management.’ Dr. Meg Chang, a lifelong dancer, instructor and creative arts therapist, shares information about the researched connection between movement and dance and their effect on pain. She describes…

The Healing Power of Expressive Arts: Integration in Pain Management

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a collaboration with Arts for the Aging, entitled ‘The Healing Power of Expressive Arts.’ Karen Estrella, PhD, REAT, LMHC, leads discussion about the research into expressive arts (movement, music, drama, visual arts, writing and creative processes) and their connection to aiding in pain…

Navigating Free Online Aging With Pain Resources

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a recording of our live webinar on October 28,2021. Navigating Free Online Aging With Pain Resources is presented by Natalie Mitchell, MS, CHES. Natalie provides an overview of the mission of the Aging and Integrative Pain Assessment and Management Initiative at the UF…

The Shape of Things: Drawing and Art Making for Pain Management

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a collaboration with Arts for the Aging, entitled ‘The Shape of Things.’ Raquel Chapin Stephenson, PhD, ATR-BC, LCAT describes the researched connection between art making and pain, as well as factors related to pain. Dr. Chapin Stephenson breaks down various studies demonstrating how…

Managing Pain After Your Emergency Department Visit

Managing your pain following a visit to the emergency department may seem overwhelming. In addition to the traditional options you may learn about during your visit on how to manage pain, such as over-the-counter and prescription medications, there are many nonpharmacologic options to consider. Nonpharmacologic, or non-medication options, may also be referred to as integrative or complementary techniques. Research has shown these techniques can be very effective and safe for managing pain.

“Start Low, Go Slow” Pain Management in Older Adults

AI-PAMI Health Care Provider Presentation: “Start Low, Go Slow” Pain Management in Older Adults, presented by Fareeha Khan, MD, MPH, assistant professor and geriatric medicine family practitioner at UF Health Jacksonville. Dr. Khan provides a breakdown of the types of pain and an overview of pharmacological changes with aging to…

Rhythms of Life: Music and Pain Management

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a collaboration with Arts for the Aging, entitled ‘Rhythms of Life.’ Dr. Mitchell Kossak provides a presentation on the benefits of music listening on pain perception and anxiety. Dr. Kossak discusses the research behind this phenomenon and acts as a host to the…

Communicating With Your Doctor About Pain

AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation: 12 Tips to a More Productive Pain Management Visit, presented by Daryl English, DNP, MSN, APRN-BC, CPP. Learn about the best ways to communicate with your health care provider to make the most of your pain management visit. Dr. English reviews how to concisely talk…

Navigating Over-the-Counter Medications to Manage Pain

If you have visited the emergency department for care and need additional support to manage your pain, you may likely go to your local pharmacy or store looking for relief. It can be challenging to make sense of the multiple pain medication options on the shelf. Medications available for purchase without a prescription are called over-the-counter, or OTC, medications.

Whole Health Approaches to Managing Arthritis Pain

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation is a recorded version of the live webinar from September 22, 2021. Megan Weigel, DNP, APRN-c, presents on “Whole Health Approaches to Managing Arthritis.” Dr. Weigel provides a general overview of integrative medicine to set the foundation for her presentation. She presents a patient…

Breaking Down the Options for Pain Management Without Opioids

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation on “Breaking Down the Options for Pain Management Without Opioids” is presented by Justin Mann, MD, D. ABA, double board-certified in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine. Dr. Mann presents on options for interventional pain management. Dr. Mann breaks down our understanding of pain and…

Using Chair Yoga to Find Pain Relief

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver live webinar on “Using Chair Yoga to Find Pain Relief” was recorded on August 11, 2021. Natalie Spindle, MS, CHES®, RYT200, provides an overview of yoga and the common components of a westernized yoga class (asana, pranayama, dyana). She then explains modifications for making yoga…

Mindful Body Scan for Pain Management

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation on “Mindful Body Scan for Pain Management” is presented by Kim Holton, PhD. Dr. Kim Holton is an Instructional Assistant Professor in Department of Health Education and Behavior within the College of Health and Human Performance at the University of…

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Medication Overview

This AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation on “Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Medication Overview” is presented by Reetu Grewal, MD, a UF Health Jacksonville Family Medicine physician. Dr. Grewal provides a comprehensive overview of available over-the-counter pain medications found in pharmacies, especially those which may be helpful for older adults living with…

Integrative Medicine for Osteoarthritis Management Clinical Pearls

View the AI-PAMI Health Care Provider Presentation: Integrative Medicine for Osteoarthritis Management Clinical Pearls, presented by Megan Weigel, DNP, APRN-c, Advanced Practice Holistic Nurse, Board Certified. Dr. Weigel gives an overview of integrative medicine and reviews osteoarthritis along with traditional treatment options. She then uses the case example of Jimmy,…

Incorporating Integrative Medicine Modalities for Pain into Clinical Practice

View the AI-PAMI Health Care Provider Presentation: Incorporating Integrative Medicine Modalities for Pain into Clinical Practice, presented by Megan Weigel, DNP, APRN-c, Advanced Practice Holistic Nurse, Board Certified. In this webinar, Dr. Weigel provides an overview of pain and traditional approaches for pain management before introducing the concept of integrative…

Straight to the Point: How Acupuncture and Acupressure Can Treat Pain

This recording of the live webinar version of the AI-PAMI Patient & Caregiver Presentation on “How Acupuncture and Acupressure Can Treat Pain” is presented by Brooke Stuart, AP, DACM, an integrative practitioner and Douglas Suffield, MAcOM, Pain Education Specialist at UF Health Jacksonville. Our panel of acupuncturists provide an overview…

Finding Relief With Virtual Realty

When you think about virtual reality, you may imagine playing a game and having fun, but in recent years, it has become a tool for reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients experiencing acute and chronic pain. Virtual reality allows patients to immerse themselves in a peaceful place, taking their minds away from the present pain in their bodies.

Two Florida Health Systems Receive SAMHSA Grants to Implement ED Alternatives to Opioids Program

The number of U.S. deaths and overdoses from opioids continues as a top public health concern, even after the opioid epidemic was declared a public health emergency in 2017. Legislation limiting opioid prescribing has driven a shift from prescription to illicit use, with increases in synthetic opioid use. This troubling problem has been a key issue for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and its agencies like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). National and state data indicate an alarming increase in opioid and other substance abuse overdoses and deaths since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic is now being referred to as a national relapse trigger.

Aromatherapy for Pain Management

This presentation on aromatherapy is presented by Douglas Suffield, MAcOM, Pain Education Specialist at UF Health Jacksonville. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants (flowers, herbs, or trees) as an integrative health approach. Doug provides an overview of aromatherapy and essential oils, their benefit and safe usage. Aromatherapy…

Virtual Reality as a Pain Management Tool

AI-PAMI hosted a live presentation of Virtual Reality as a Pain Management Tool on March 3, 2021. The webinar was presented by Douglas Suffield, MAcOM, Pain Education Specialist at UF Health Jacksonville. Doug starts by explaining pain neuroscience and how distraction techniques like virtual reality can reduce pain. He provides…

Aging with Pain — Stay Informed and Stay Well

Pain management is a very personal topic and for many, understanding what options are best can be a challenge. The Integrative Pain Management Series presented by the Aging and Integrative Pain Assessment and Management Initiative (AI-PAMI) at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville is a comprehensive project aiming to educate adults ages 50 and older, their caregivers and the health care providers who work with this population about pain management options beyond medications alone.

Understanding Medical Marijuana

View the live webinar recording of Understanding Medical Marijuana and its Potential Benefits and Harms in Older Adults Living with Pain, presented by University of Florida researchers, Robert Cook, MD, MPH and Yan Wang, PhD. on Feb. 23, 2021. Dr. Cook and Dr. Wang presented on medical marijuana and its…

UF researchers receive $1.46 million grant to implement alternatives to opioids program

Imagine a world where emergency room patients and providers have access to a menu of pain management treatment options that include a blend of traditional and integrative techniques. This is the vision held by a team at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville looking to create a new way of caring for patients with a variety of pain conditions. With funding received by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA, this concept will soon become a reality at the UF Health Jacksonville and UF Health North emergency rooms.

Understanding Chiropractic Management of Pain

Adam Chaifetz, DC, DIBCN, MSCS, presents “Understanding Chiropractic Management of Pain” for health care provider audiences. Chaifetz is a Chiropractic Neurologist and the Program Clinical Coordinator for the Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Center at UF Health Jacksonville. He provides an overview of cervical spine and back pain conditions commonly treated by…

Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Pain Management

The presentation on the anti-inflammatory diet for pain management is presented by Kayla Fisher, RDN, CDE, a registered dietitian with UF Health Jacksonville. Research shows that a diet combatting inflammation can help reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness caused by several painful conditions such as arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. Kayla provides…

Approaching Pain Using Psychologically Informed Practice

View the live webinar recording of Approaching Pain Using Psychologically Informed Practice, presented by Jason Beneciuk, DPT, PhD on Dec. 1, 2020. Beneciuk is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Florida and Clinical Research Scientist at Brooks Rehabilitation. His webinar presentation focuses on…

Physical Therapy Role in Chronic Pain Management

Physical Therapy Role in Chronic Pain Management is presented by Hannah Scholten, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT, clinical supervisor, UF Health Rehabilitation – Wildlight. Hannah discusses the issue of chronic pain in the U.S., the history of pain management and existing pain treatment options. She provides an introduction to physical therapy…

Role of Physical Rehabilitation in Chronic Pain Management

The Role of Physical Rehabilitation in Chronic Pain Management is presented by Hannah Scholten, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT, clinical supervisor, UF Health Rehabilitation – Wildlight. Hannah discusses the neurophysiology of pain, interdisciplinary treatment options and the role of physical therapy in pain management. She provides a detailed overview of the…

Yoga and Breathing to Assist Your Patients

Health care providers can learn about Yoga & Breathing to Assist Patients with Pain Management in this presentation by Kathryn Thomas, veteran and executive director of Yoga 4 Change. You will learn about the benefits of yoga and breath work to assist patients in decreasing their stress, anxiety and pain.

Yoga and Breathing for Pain Relief

Yoga & Breathing to Assist with Pain Management is presented by Kathryn Thomas, veteran and executive director of Yoga 4 Change. You will learn about the many benefits of yoga for stress, anxiety and pain reduction. Kathryn also provides instruction on several breathing exercises you can try at home. Live…

The impact of health disparities on patients’ pain outcomes

Pain researchers at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville have received new funding to study how genetics may factor into the connection between socioeconomic disadvantage and pain outcomes. The “Impact of Health Disparity and Epigenetic Variability on Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain in African Americans (IMPACT)” is a pilot study to create a biorepository and better understand this association.

Coping with Persistent Pain

Brian Celso, PhD, an assistant professor and psychologist at UF Health Surgical Psychology – Jacksonville presents, “Coping with Persistent Pain.” Dr. Celso encourages you to develop a deeper understanding of how pain has affected your life and how to break out of the cycle of uncontrolled pain. He also provides…

Adults 50 and Older Needed for Virtual Aging with Pain Focus Groups

Are you living with pain? We are seeking adults ages 50 and older living with pain and their caregivers for their thoughts on pain management. Aging with Pain Focus Group The Aging and Integrative Pain Assessment and Management Initiative (AI-PAMI) is seeking participants for a virtual focus group to help…

Naloxone: The Gift of Time

Naloxone: The Gift of Time (2023) Robin Moorman Li, PharmD, BCACP, CPE, NBC-HWC, a clinical associate professor and assistant director for the University of Florida College of Pharmacy – Jacksonville presents on opioid prescribing safety as it relates to opioid overdose reversal through the use of naloxone. She reviews the…

Managing Pain — Shifting the Stress Response

Brooke Stuart, AP, DACM, presents on Managing Pain — Shifting the Stress Response. She shares practical tools for shifting the body’s stress response for improved pain management. You will learn more about how your diet, activity level and mindset can play a role in the way you experience pain.

Medical Management of Chronic Pain

Monika Patel, MD, an assistant professor and pain medicine physician at UF Health Jacksonville, presents Medical Management of Chronic Pain. This presentation defines chronic pain, provides an overview of patient evaluation, highlights simple prevention measures and potential referral options. It also details medication management for pain patients and potential pain…

Living with Chronic Pain

Monika Patel, MD, an assistant professor and pain medicine physician at UF Health Jacksonville, presents Living with Chronic Pain. This presentation provides information on common painful health conditions, treatment options, prevention and resources for patients and caregivers. Presentation Slide Deck: Living with Pain Slides M…

UF researchers studying effects of genetics and childhood stress on prescription opioid abuse

The University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville and the University of Florida College of Nursing are combining efforts to research how genetics and stress experienced in early childhood years may later lead to negative health outcomes, such as opioid use disorder. Researchers are expanding upon an existing study to assess these factors in patients experiencing chronic pain.

Opioid Tapering in Chronic Pain Management

Robin Moorman Li, PharmD, BCACP, CPE, NBC-HWC, a clinical associate professor and assistant director for the University of Florida College of Pharmacy – Jacksonville presents evidence-based guidelines, tools and case studies to help manage patients you are engaging in opioid tapering. She discusses the important considerations to take to help…

PAMI Pain Management and Dosing Guide 2020 Version Released

The Pain Assessment and Management Initiative (PAMI) at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville has released an updated 2020 version of the Pain Management and Dosing Guide. As a comprehensive tool for health care providers delivering pain treatment, the Guide uses a stepwise approach to pain management.

Clinicians Needed for Aging with Pain Virtual Focus Groups

Do you manage patients living with pain? We are seeking health care providers who manage older adults living with pain to learn more about pain management options. Integrative Pain Management Focus Group The Aging and Integrative Pain Assessment and Management Initiative (AI-PAMI) is seeking health care providers for a virtual…

Florida PEDReady Communication Cards Now Available in Haitian Creole

In an effort to assist EMS personnel, hospital and emergency department staff, PEDReady has translated the English and Spanish medical communication cards into Haitian Creole. Haitian Creole is the third most commonly spoken language in Florida. The cards are designed as a reusable tool to assist in communication…

PAMI and The Joint Commission Pain Standards

  PAMI and The Joint Commission Pain Standards Resource Effective January 2018, The Joint Commission has established New and Revised Standards Related to Pain Assessment and Management. PAMI—The Pain Assessment and Management Initiative has free…

Medical Communication Cards NOW IN SPANISH!

Multi-use, durable and helpful cards to assist in communication with children and families who are non-verbal or non-English speaking. Updated 2019 version has SPANISH terms!…

JUST ADDED! Educational Pain Videos

As part of our Discharge Planning Toolkit, we have created educational pain videos. They can be viewed from your computer, tablet or smart phone. Click here to watch our videos!  …