Neurológia pre prax 1/2022

Chronic pain after peripheral nerve injury

The article provides an overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the development of chronic pain after nerve injury and especially of the strategies for its treatment. Special attention is given to the complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and phantom pain. Chronic pain is a very unpleasant consequence of peripheral nerve injury. The pain is not only the result of the injury itself but is maintained and even augmented by the mechanisms of peripheral and central sensitization. Therefore, adequate pain therapy must be started already in the acute stage of the injury. Correctly indicated and performed surgical procedure is essential for the treatment of nerve injuries. In the management of pain, various methods are combined, from pharmacotherapy – following the guidelines for the treatment of neuropathic pain – through rehabilitation to invasive methods including neurostimulation.

Keywords: chronic pain, neuropathic pain, nerve injury, complex regional pain syndrome, pain treatment