Neuropathic Pain and Rehabilitation

Neuropathic pain—from an injury or disease of the peripheral and/or somatosensory nervous system—is usually severe and chronic, resistant to treatment, and therefore challenging for clinicians attempting to help patients. Researchers noted the high impact of neuropathic pain: "Many people with severe neuropathic pain conditions are significantly disabled with moderate or severe pain for many years. Chronic pain conditions comprised five of the 11 high-ranking conditions for years lived with disabilities in 2010 and are responsible for a notable loss in quality of life and employment and rising healthcare costs." A new study in the Diagnostics (Basel) journal reviewed guidelines of therapeutic strategies and rehabilitative recommendations for the management of neuropathic pain. Six guidelines were analyzed and the article authors concluded that a multidisciplinary approach is recommended.

The review considered neurostimulation, TENS, physical therapy, acupuncture for postherpetic neuralgia, psychotherapy, deep brain stimulation, and other treatments. Although further studies are called for, the guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary approach, with pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions, rehabilitative interventions, and other therapies to aid patients affected with neuropathic pain.

 

Read the journal article.

Other Categories:

• diabetic peripheral neuropathy

• guidelines

• neurology

• neuropathic pain

• physical therapy