The aim is to reduce the intensity of the pain, to make a return to functional activity possible and to stabilise the psychological state.
Neuropathic pain is a form of pain that arises from damage to the nervous system, does not depend on the activity of ordinary pain receptors and has qualities of various kinds: burning, stabbing, shooting. Treatment is difficult, long-term and calls for an individualised approach.
At the first stage the patient's complaints, the quality of the pain, the area it spreads over and its intensity are assessed carefully. Drug treatment may include an anticonvulsant (gabapentin, pregabalin), an antidepressant (duloxetine, amitriptyline), topical preparations (lidocaine patches, capsaicin) and opioids.
Methods such as psychological support, cognitive behavioural therapy and bio‑feedback help to ease the emotional tension that comes with neuropathic pain. Physiotherapy and electrical stimulation methods (TENS) can serve to reduce the symptoms.
In refractory cases neuroablative procedures (radiofrequency ablation, nerve stimulation) may be considered, and they are carried out only under strict medical supervision.
The aim is to reduce the intensity of the pain, to make a return to functional activity possible and to stabilise the psychological state.