Actionable Nuggets for SCI (2nd ed., 2013)
Use a step-wise evidence-based protocol for the management of neuropathic pain in SCI, and review pain management annually.
The Problem:

It is estimated that neuropathic pain affects 40% to 75% of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Neuropathic pain can result from nerve root damage, spinal cord damage or syringomyelia. Pharmacological management of pain in SCI must take into account a number of factors, such as: polypharmacy for other SCI-related complications; altered pharmacokinetics due to SCI; effect of pharmacological interventions on function and fatigue; effect of inadequately treated pain on functioning and quality of life.
Evidence-based Best Practice:
Stepwise pharmacological management of neuropathic pain is as follows:
- First-line agents –> Gabapentin, Pregabalin
- Second-line agents –> Serotonin noradrenalin re-uptake inhibitors, topical lidocaine
- Third-line agents –> Controlled-release opioid analgesics, tramodol
- Fourth-line agents –> Lamotrigine, topiramate, valproic acid, cannabinoids, methadone
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that the anti-convulsants Gabapentin and Pregabalin are effective in the management of neuropathic pain in most individuals with SCI . Trials of serotonin noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have reduced neuropathic pain, although there is no direct evidence in individuals with SCI. Topical lidocaine has been shown to be effective in the management of localized neuropathic pain. Tramadol and other opioids have been shown to offer pain relief for some individuals with post-SCI neuropathic pain. The fourth line agents have produced mixed results in neuropathic pain trials although there are no studies in individuals with SCI. Tricyclic antidepressants ( eg., amitriptyline, nortriptyline) have shown mixed results for pain management in this population.
Pain in many individuals with SCI is refractory to pharmacological agents. Neuropathic pain has been shown to be generally poorly treated in the community, and a case is made in the literature for referral to tertiary pain clinics for those with refractory pain, and multidimensional pain management including alternative and complementary therapies.
Key reference:
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