Neuropathic pain and cerebral health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20453/rnp.v89i2.6414Keywords:
neuropathic pain, chronic pain, cerebral health, quality of lifeAbstract
The objective of this review was to analyze the global increase in the prevalence of neuropathic pain and its impact on brain health, taking into account its specific characteristics. Additionally, comprehensive management strategies based on current evidence are outlined. This review provides an updated overview of neuropathic pain as a manifestation of various neurological conditions, its most common comorbidities, and its impact on quality of life. It emphasizes a comprehensive management approach based on the biopsychosocial model. The prevalence of neuropathic pain was found to range from 7% to 10%. Increased life expectancy and the rise in chronic, disabling diseases associated with neuropathic pain are driving an increase in medical demand, which is poorly met by current treatments. Pain intensity and the presence of comorbidities such as mood and sleep disorders significantly affect quality of life on a personal, family, social, and occupational level. Furthermore, they increase direct and indirect medical costs and are associated with higher mortality due to changes in health patterns. It is concluded that chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, is influenced by biological, psycho-emotional, and sociocultural factors and leads to a deterioration in brain health. Therefore, healthcare models must adopt an integrative approach that takes these aspects into account to improve their management.
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