Important Notes
- The onset of pain years after injury may indicate the onset of a rare medical condition, such as a syrinx. (Evaluate)
- Pain is common above, at- or below-injury level regardless of sensory level.
- Pain descriptors vary greatly from person to person, so it can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
Typically, a combination of treatments is most effective in pain control and management, as the elimination of pain is difficult and often unachievable.
Treatment considerations are dependent on the pain classification and based on patient's reported symptoms
- Nociceptive - originating from the skin, musculoskeletal system, or viscera that is made worse by movement, yet often improved by rest or change in position. It is commonly described as
- dull;
- aching; or
- throbbing
- Neuropathic - originating from the peripheral or central nervous systems are commonly described as
- hot-burning;
- tingling;
- pins and needles;
- sharp;
- shooting;
- painful cold;
- electric shock; or
- in some cases there can be hypersensitivity to light touch or pinprick (allodynia); usually not affected by movement.
