Activity 2: Tailoring the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain: Case Studies
In this second activity, Tailoring the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain: Case Studies, faculty build on material discussed in the first activity, Principles of Neuropathic Pain Assessment and Management. Principles of diagnosis, assessment and management are reinforced using patient cases. The program focuses on the two most common forms of neuropathic pain: postherpetic neuralgia and painful diabetic neuropathy. In addition, the faculty members discuss a case of idiopathic neuropathic pain and how to approach diagnosis and management in complex situations. The final part of this program focuses on how to optimize patient outcomes. Topics discussed include the role of the multidisciplinary team, the importance of patient education, long-term treatment monitoring and practical advice on the use of opioids in neuropathic pain.
Learning Objectives
After completing this activity, family physicians will be better able to:
- Apply evidence-based recommendations for assessment and management of neuropathic pain in clinical practice.
- Recognize signs and symptoms of neuropathic pain to facilitate timely diagnosis and management.
- Differentiate among commonly encountered neuropathic pain conditions and their various causes in order to select appropriate treatments.
- Improve assessment of neuropathic pain in clinical practice, including assessment of comorbidities.
- Apply evidence-based strategies in the selection and use of first-, second- and third-line pharmacotherapy for patients with common neuropathic pain syndromes.
- Develop tailored treatment plans that address common and potentially debilitating comorbidities, such as depression and sleep disturbances.
- Implement practical approaches to monitoring treatment response, managing adverse effects and optimizing outcomes.
Accessing the Activity
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Acknowledgment of Support
These activities are supported by an independent educational grant from Pfizer and PriCara, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., administered by Ortho-McNeil Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC.
