Neuropathic Pain

Angie SzumlinskiFeatured, Studies

MedPage Today reported on Erika A. Petersen, MD, of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock speaking at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology’s virtual meeting in May. Dr. Petersen discussed the use of a spinal cord stimulation device for relieving diabetic neuropathy pain. “This is the largest randomized controlled trial evaluating spinal cord stimulation for refractory painful diabetic neuropathy” she stated.

In the study, 60% of the participants achieved remission and 85% of responders experienced 50% or greater reduction in pain. Additionally, the participants receiving high frequency spinal cord stimulation plus medical management saw a 62% improvement in neurological examination that included tests of lower limb motor strength, light touch sensation, reflex testing of the patellar, Achilles, and Babinski reflexes and a 10-point foot assessment with pinprick and 10-g monofilament.

Imagine a world where residents living with diabetic neuropathy may have some relief! Maybe that walk down the hall or climbing a flight of stairs wouldn’t be impossible for them? Remember, pain is subjective and any resident experiencing pain should be fully assessed and treated appropriately, whether that includes therapy, electrical stimulation, pain medications, or simple rest periods. Ask the resident what the character of the pain is, where it is located, how often it is there, and most importantly what has worked to manage the pain in the past. Stay informed, stay well and stay tuned!