It just feels weird!: a qualitative study of how children aged 10–18 years describe neuropathic pain

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore how children aged 10–18 years describe their neuropathic pain (NP).

Method: This is a qualitative descriptive study using inductive content analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight children, aged 10–18 years with varying diagnoses, who were experiencing NP.

Results: All children were able to describe their NP using a variety of strategies, including use of literal and figurative language. While some sensory descriptors commonly reported by adults were used, descriptions of NP pattern and impact were also integral to their narratives. Children were able to differentiate NP from nociceptive pain. Parents clarified and gave context to pain reports.

Conclusions: NP is a complex experience necessitating consideration of the different ways that children describe their symptoms. Involvement of parents is invaluable to the process of taking a pain history with a child who is being screened for NP.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• The findings of the study may inform the screening process for NP in children to facilitate earlier identification.

• Clinicians should consider the variety of ways that children may express their NP symptoms and the resulting impact.

• Clinicians should probe further when children report that symptoms are hard to describe or “weird”.

• Presence of a parent during the child’s pain assessment may assist with gathering a more complete picture.

Keywords:

• Pain
• assessment
• description
• adolescents
• impact

Acknowledgements

This research was completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an MScPT degree at the University of Toronto.

The authors would like to thank the families and children who participated in this study, and acknowledge Pui Ying Wong, Trischa Lowe, Lori Palozzi, Dr. G. Borschel, and Irene Simpson for their input and support. Thanks to the Physiotherapy Practice Council at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital for their assistance and funding.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no declarations of interest.