Spinal cord injury pain.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pain Medicine
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Chronic pain is a prevalent and challenging condition in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Effective management necessitates a comprehensive evaluation, including detailed history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing.
• The International Spinal Cord Injury Pain Classification system aids in categorizing pain syndromes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the epidemiology, classification, evaluation, and management of chronic pain associated with traumatic spinal cord injury.
• To assist physiatrists in developing reasoned treatment strategies for SCI-associated pain.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on SCI-associated pain.
• Discussion of the International Spinal Cord Injury Pain Classification system.
• Overview of nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and interventional management approaches.

Main Results:

• Spinal cord injury-associated pain presents diverse challenges requiring specialized assessment.
• A structured classification system aids in understanding and managing different pain types.
• Multimodal treatment strategies, encompassing various approaches, are available for SCI pain.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive evaluation and classification are crucial for effective SCI pain management.
• A range of treatment options, including nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and interventional methods, should be considered.
• Physiatrists can utilize this information to optimize care for patients with SCI-associated chronic pain.