Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG41/1

Question

Neuropathic pain relief:- Does early treatment with a centrally acting analgesic (for example pregabalin) reduce the frequency or severity of neuropathic pain in people with spinal cord injury?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- Neuropathic pain occurs in 40% of people with spinal cord injury. It can be severe and disabling, and in people with spinal cord injury it can lead to further impairment of function. Having neuropathic pain can also result in increased care needs and costs of care, and make it difficult to find employment. It also increases the risk of significant depressive illness and suicide. Research is needed to address whether early treatment of spinal cord injury with a centrally acting analgesic such as pregabalin might reduce the frequency or severity of neuropathic pain.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Spinal injury: assessment and initial management

Number

NG41

Date issued

February 2016

Other details