Chronic pain after spinal cord injury: a survey of practice in spinal injury units in the USA.

Objective: To determine the current practice regarding assessment and management of patients with chronic pain after spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States of America (USA).

Methods: A postal questionnaire sent to the medical directors of 12 spinal injury units in the USA.

Results: A response was received from eight of the 12 units. Chronic pain was considered a significant problem amongst patients with SCI. There was inconsistency of opinion regarding prevalence estimates, investigation and management of chronic pain after SCI; but classification systems for pain were remarkably similar amongst units. Most felt that there was a need for further information, although only one unit said it was presently conducting research into the subject.

Conclusion: Our survey has demonstrated the uncertainty that exists amongst USA specialists dealing with pain after SCI, and strengthens the case for more research into the subject with a view to developing guidelines for care.