Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a common, debilitating, costly, and difficult-to-treat category of chronic pain conditions characterized by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system. Neuropathic Pain, part of the What Do I Do Now? Pain Medicine series, brings together 45 cases that explore the diagnoses, assessment, management, and treatment of various types of neuropathic pain, including less common and complex cases. The book is a valuable resource for clinicians and a self-assessment tool that tests their ability to answer the question, "What do I do now?"

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Neuropathic pain stands as a highly prevalent, debilitating, and costly chronic pain condition, characterized by a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. This intricate category of pain disorders presents significant challenges in treatment, making it a pressing concern for healthcare professionals. In response, the What Do I Do Now? Pain Medicine series presents Neuropathic Pain, a comprehensive volume that brings together 45 meticulously crafted cases, delving into the comprehensive diagnosis, assessment, management, and treatment of diverse neuropathic pain types, including less common and intricate cases.

The treatment of neuropathic pain necessitates a skilled and nuanced approach. This volume serves as a valuable resource for clinicians, offering a rich collection of thought-provoking cases that can be employed when faced with challenging scenarios. Moreover, it functions as a self-assessment tool, testing the reader's ability to respond to the crucial question: "What do I do now?"

Neuropathic pain encompasses a wide range of symptoms and presentations, affecting individuals in various ways. It can manifest as burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain, often described as a "shooting" or "stabbing" sensation. The pain may be chronic, lasting for months or even years, or it can occur in episodes or flare-ups. Neuropathic pain can originate from various sources, including spinal cord injuries, nerve damage, autoimmune disorders, or infections.

Diagnosing neuropathic pain is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a thorough evaluation. Healthcare professionals employ a combination of clinical examination, imaging techniques, and laboratory tests to identify the underlying cause of the pain and assess its severity. This may involve nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans.

Once a diagnosis is established, treatment options for neuropathic pain vary depending on the specific type and severity of the pain. Common treatment approaches include medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and pain relievers, as well as physical therapies, such as nerve stimulation and acupuncture. In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to alleviate the pain.

Management of neuropathic pain involves a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. It involves not only medication management but also psychological support, lifestyle modifications, and patient education. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, stress management techniques, and pain management programs can help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological impact of neuropathic pain.

In addition to medication and physical therapies, alternative and complementary therapies have also shown promise in managing neuropathic pain. These include herbal remedies, massage therapy, and meditation. Some individuals may also benefit from support groups and peer counseling, which provide a sense of community and understanding.

Neuropathic pain is a complex and challenging condition that requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. By combining medical expertise, psychological support, and patient-centered care, healthcare professionals can help individuals manage neuropathic pain and improve their quality of life.

In conclusion, neuropathic pain is a prevalent and debilitating chronic pain condition that affects the somatosensory nervous system. It presents significant challenges in diagnosis, assessment, management, and treatment. The What Do I Do Now? Pain Medicine series' Neuropathic Pain provides a comprehensive collection of cases that explore the various aspects of neuropathic pain, including diagnosis, assessment, management, and treatment. By utilizing these cases, clinicians can gain valuable insights and develop effective strategies for managing neuropathic pain, while individuals can better understand and cope with this condition.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 235 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197616345