Neuropathic pain is one of the most reported consequences of a spinal cord injury (SCI). Despite how many people experience neuropathic pain, treatments may not be very effective, and may cause a wide variety of negative side effects. Furthermore, there is often a gap of understanding and knowledge between the individual who experiences spinal cord injury neuropathic pain, and their medical doctors.
In this Peer Connections session, we will explain what is happening in your body when you are experiencing neuropathic pain. Common (evidence-based) neuropathic pain treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals will be discussed, and additional treatment options (e.g., exercise) that have been shown to work for some people with spinal cord injuries will be outlined. Importantly, you will be left with insight on how to better communicate your neuropathic pain to your healthcare team, and tips on how to better understand it yourself.
This peer connections was delivered by Dr. Kendra Todd, who earned her PhD from the University of British Columbia, where she specialized in neuropathic pain and spinal cord injury research. Dr. Todd is also the head coach of both the Okanagan Rattlers Wheelchair Rugby team, and Team BC’s development wheelchair rugby team. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with, and learn from our SCIO community.
Peer-to-peer experiences and understanding is a vital part of SCIO’s monthly Peer Connections workshops across the province. We gather online informally, often with an expert speaker and share insights and solutions to issues related to living with a spinal cord injury. Topics and locations vary and are driven by the specific needs of people living with spinal cord injury.
