[Evidence-based therapy of painful neuropathies in the primary care practice]

In the future, a growing number of polyneuropathies is to be expected since metabolic diseases are increasing and those falling ill are becoming older. The therapy must meet rising standards in the midst of ever tightening financial resources. In the process, the treatment must inevitably undergo an assessment based on the evidence of its effectiveness. A number of traditional, empirical treatment methods will no longer fit into this picture. The therapy of neuropathic pain is an example of a fundamental knowledge and cause-oriented treatment strategy. Here, a great number of therapeutic options were established that comply with the criteria of an evidence-based medicine.