Neuropathic%20pain Patient Education

Central Neuropathic Pain

• The patient should be given adequate information regarding central neuropathic pain including its underlying cause
• If the patient suffers from allodynia, application of a protective layer (eg cling film) between the skin and clothing may helpful

Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN)

• The patient should be educated about DPN, support should be given and expected outcomes should be reviewed
  • Review mechanisms of neuropathic pain, providing information on what is currently known and unknown

• Assist patient with practical measures (eg bed cradle to lift bedclothes off of sensitive skin)
• Patient should be made aware of how important optimal glycemic control is
  • Glycemic control near normoglycemia may help slow or prevent the development of peripheral neuropathy and other complications (eg retinopathy, nephropathy, etc)

• Patients should be counseled on how to optimize their glycemic control
  • Proper diet, oral antidiabetics and insulin use
  • Glucose monitoring, etc

• Help patient understand that complete pain relief may not be achieved despite best efforts of patient or physician
• Inform patients of possible adverse effects from medications and any potential for abuse or development of tolerance

Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

• The patient should be given adequate information and explanation regarding PHN; this may help alleviate anxiety about the disorder
• Educate about treatment side effects
• It is important that the patient try to maintain social and physical activities

Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

• Inform patient about the available treatment options and the expected outcomes