Peripheral Nerve Injury and Pain: Epidemiology, Mechanisms, Rehabilitation and Treatment Guidelines

Post-traumatic peripheral neuropathic pain (PTP-NP) is a common debilitating neuropathic pain condition. After certain types of physical trauma or surgical procedures, the prevalence of PTP-NP can exceed 60%. Clinically, a significant degree of pain with altered sensitivity at the area of the trauma or within the distribution of the affected peripheral nerve(s) has been the hallmark of PTP-NP. In this chapter, the authors review the epidemiology, economic impact, and major causes of PTP-NP. Detailed neuronal, cellular and molecular mechanisms leading to the development of PTP-NP are discussed. In addition, the authors explore the current available pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options, as well as the direction for future research and treatment development. While you may find the content of some chapters overlapping with others, they collectively serve as a comprehensive resource to reinforce your understanding in this common chronic pain condition and enhance your ability in managing patients living with this debilitating condition. The editor thanks all contributing authors for their work and Ms. Mellissa Medeiros for her editing effort. He dedicates this book to his late mother, Dr. Haidy J. Fung (1939-2018), for inspiring his interest in medicine.