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Psychological assessment and treatment of patients with neuropathic pain

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Abstract

Studies on the psychological assessment and treatment of neuropathic pain conditions, including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), diabetic neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, post spinal cord injury, post amputation, and AIDS-related neuropathy, are reviewed. Although limited information is currently available, the findings are consistent with the larger literature on chronic pain and indicate that the assessment of neuropathic pain needs to include measurement of multiple dimensions of quality of life. Mood, physical and social functioning, and pain-coping strategies such as catastrophizing and social support are all important domains. Clinical trials of psychological interventions have not been reported in the scientific literature. Case series of successful treatment of neuropathic pain are reported, primarily in the area of biofeedback. As with other chronically painful conditions, it is likely that cognitive-behavioral interventions will improve the quality of life in neuropathic pain conditions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, 218 Meyer, 600 N. Wolfe Street, 21287, Baltimore, MD, USA

    Jennifer A. Haythornthwaite PhD

  2. Mayo Clinic, Charlton 7-154, 200 1st Street, NW, 55905, Rochester, MN, USA

    Lisa M. Benrud- Larson PhD

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  1. Jennifer A. Haythornthwaite PhD
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  2. Lisa M. Benrud- Larson PhD
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Haythornthwaite, J.A., Larson, L.M.B. Psychological assessment and treatment of patients with neuropathic pain. Current Science Inc 5, 124–129 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-001-0080-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-001-0080-4

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