The demographics of pain after spinal cord injury: a survey of our model system

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-022-00482-1 · Published: January 14, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study explores the characteristics of pain experienced by individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It uses surveys to gather data on different types of pain, such as neuropathic and nociceptive pain, and how they relate to factors like gender, injury severity, and time since injury. The study found that chronic pain is very common after SCI, with neuropathic pain being the most prevalent type. Women tend to report more neuropathic pain than men. Shoulder pain is also a frequent issue, especially for those with tetraplegia. Understanding these pain patterns can help doctors better identify, prevent, and manage chronic pain in SCI patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

171 responses from individuals with SCI

Evidence Level

Survey

Key Findings

1
81% of individuals with SCI experience chronic pain, and 86% of those with pain have neuropathic pain.
2
Females reported significantly higher PROMIS-Neur scores, indicating more neuropathic pain than males.
3
Those with tetraplegia were more likely to develop shoulder pain, and those reporting shoulder pain as their worst or second-worst pain had significantly higher PROMIS-No scores.

Research Summary

This survey-based study investigates the demographics of pain following spinal cord injury (SCI), utilizing standardized pain assessment tools to characterize pain types and severities in relation to various demographic and injury-related factors. Key findings include the high prevalence of chronic and neuropathic pain among SCI patients, the association of greater neuropathic pain in females, and a higher incidence of shoulder pain in individuals with tetraplegia. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding pain demographics to improve screening, prevention, and management strategies for chronic pain in the SCI population.

Practical Implications

Targeted Pain Management

Physicians should closely monitor for nociceptive shoulder pain, especially in tetraplegic patients, and implement targeted management strategies.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Treatment plans should consider the completeness of the injury and the location, as incomplete and lumbosacral injuries are more likely to result in higher levels of neuropathic pain.

Early Pain Intervention

Early intervention and aggressive pain management during the initial hospital stay may help prevent the development of chronic pain syndromes.

Study Limitations

1
The survey was distributed through a single model system database, potentially introducing regional bias.
2
Small sample sizes in some statistical categories, particularly those assessing nociceptive pain, may lead to Type II errors.
3
Level of completeness of injury (AIS classification) was self-reported and not confirmed by physician examination or medical records review.

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