Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a common condition that arises from injury anywhere along the somatosensory axis. Although the presentation may vary based on mechanisms and locations of injury, most patients have characteristic burning, shocklike, lancinating pain, most often in the distribution of peripheral and spinal nerves or distal extremities. Various peripheral and central processes aggravate pain through abnormal impulse generation, modulation, and processing. Common conditions include complex regional pain syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, spondylotic radiculopathy, and central pain syndromes. A detailed history and physical examination will aid in differentiating various neuropathic pain conditions. Neuropathic pain is best managed using a true multidisciplinary approach.