[The difficulties of pain assessment and management in an adolescent]

Adolescence is a difficult period, and somatic complaints can hide psychological suffering which has to be deciphered. It is therefore important during the first consultation or during hospitalisation to take the time to establish a good rapport (or therapeutic bond) with the adolescent and his family, and to assess with different tools and compassionate listening all the components of the pain. Once the diagnosis is established, pain management should associate pharmaceutical and complementary therapies, and must be re-assessed after a while.