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Pain in children with cerebral palsy: a review
Kimberly A McKearnan1, Gail M Kieckhefer, Joyce M Engel
1Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, USA. mckearna@ohsu.edu
Insights
Pain is a common but understudied issue for children with cerebral palsy (CP). More research is needed on pain assessment and management tailored to the unique needs of these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Children with cerebral palsy (CP) experience numerous challenges, including motor, sensory, and cognitive deficits.
- Pain is a frequent issue for children with CP, stemming from the condition itself and medical interventions.
- Existing literature suggests pain in this population is under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and impact of pain in children with cerebral palsy.
- To emphasize the need for further research into pain assessment and management strategies for this group.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on pain in children with cerebral palsy.
Main Results:
- Pain is a common experience among children with CP.
- Pain in children with CP is significantly understudied.
- Current assessment and management strategies may not adequately address the specific needs of these children.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need for increased research focus on pain in children with CP.
- Developing tailored pain assessment and management approaches is essential for improving quality of life.
- Further investigation should consider the unique characteristics and limitations of children with CP.
Abstract:
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) face many challenges including impaired motor control and coordination, functional impairment, sensory disturbances, and, sometimes, communication difficulties and cognitive deficits. Pain also may be a problem for children with CP due in part to the inherent deficits associated with the disease, as well as the invasive medical and surgical procedures and rehabilitative activities children with CP undergo on a regular basis. A review of current literature indicates pain is a common experience for children with CP and has been understudied in this population. Further emphasis and research on appropriate assessment and management strategies sensitive to the unique characteristics and limitations of children with CP are warranted.
