Could a sleep supplement help reduce chronic pain?

Could a sleep supplement help reduce chronic pain?

Author: ABC Australia July 4, 2026 Duration: 44:19
While looking for ways to treat pain in those with musculoskeletal disorders, researchers examined studies in which sleep supplement melatonin had been used.  A study into the behaviour of immune cells in coeliac disease patients showed surprising results. Instead of being overactive, T cells in coeliac disease were subdued, and didn't survive as long as T cells from healthy people.  Spinal stimulators have been in use for many years, but the evidence for their benefit, or otherwise has been unclear until now. References Efficacy and effectiveness of melatonin for the management of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo and active controlled trials Functional immune profiling reveals CD4+ T cell dysregulation in coeliac disease (Immunology and Cell Biology, 2026) Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation plus locomotor training versus sham-stimulation plus locomotor training in chronic spinal cord injury (eWALK): a multicentre, triple-blind, randomised, sham-controlled trial The little-known cause of heart attack in young women Worsening Asthma Outcomes in Australian Adults: A Comparison of Stratified Sample Surveys in 2012 and 2021 Most Australians unaware of 'black triangle' medicine side effects reporting scheme: study New pneumococcal vaccine for adults on the NIP Statement from Invidior on removal of Sublocade from Australian market

Tune in to Health Report for a clear-eyed look at the medical news that actually impacts your life. Hosted by Dr Norman Swan and Dr Preeya Alexander, this ABC podcast cuts through the noise of health headlines, offering grounded analysis and practical context. Each episode is a conversation that breaks down complex research, emerging health threats, and wellness trends, separating evidence from hype. You’ll hear them dissect new studies, interview experts, and answer the questions that arise from weekly health scares and breakthroughs. It’s for anyone who wants to move beyond soundbites and understand the science behind their wellbeing, from nutrition and exercise to major public health policies. This isn't just about information; it's about building a deeper, more useful understanding of how to navigate the ever-changing world of health. Join Norman and Preeya for thoughtful discussions that make sense of it all, ensuring you’re equipped with knowledge that makes a tangible difference.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Health Report
Podcast Episodes
Wait, does exercise help osteoarthritis? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:19
A paper has suggested exercise has minimal, short-term effects on osteoarthritis. But experts are warning people with the condition that they shouldn't stop moving. Also, school kids are being called on to help in the fi…
Prescribing exercise for mental health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:55
Researchers have pin-pointed the best exercise routines for depression or anxiety symptoms, and they might be equal to medication and talk therapy. Also, why states and territories are making changes to their maternity c…
The cost shock of specialist care [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:11
When you pay for private health insurance, you might assume you'll be well covered if you get injured or fall ill. But a new report has revealed the huge costs that catch people off guard, and sometimes prevent them from…
Going to ChatGPT for health advice? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:11
Many people turning to AI for health advice are doing it for valid reasons — it's cheap, fast and isn't bound by a 15-minute timer. But the checks and balances companies use to ensure their products are safe, or even acc…
What are the benefits of having a dry January? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:55
If you're having a month off the beers to kick off the year, do you know what a short stretch of sobriety could achieve? Some companies in the United States are even pushing people to trade their alcohol for THC, for "hi…
Can AI make personalised medicine accessible? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:34
How far would you go to save your dog? One owner has used ChatGPT and other AI models to find a treatment for his pup's cancer. Also, we could be missing cases of liver disease because of differences between pathology ce…
Walking the Camino with knee osteoarthritis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:05
People with osteoarthritis used to be told to take it easy and avoid overdoing exercise. But the advice has changed drastically. Also, should everyone going onto GLP-1 medications for weight loss be screened and monitore…
Is Dr Google fuelling your hypochondria? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:59
Anxiety can manifest in an excessive worry about your health, and it can be debilitating. But there are effective treatments. Also, antidepressants can be difficult to come off because of the withdrawal symptoms. An expe…
Uncovering the brain circuit for creativity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:02
There's a paradox in neurodegenerative disease – sometimes as the brain deteriorates, creativity flourishes. Researchers have used imaging techniques to map creativity in the brains of people with Parkinson’s and Alzheim…
Swapping salt for a heart healthier option [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:57
Substituting your table salt for something with lower sodium could drive down your risk of heart attack and stroke. Also, what expectant parents might not know about screening for genetic diseases before conceiving. Arti…