Pain is something that everyone feels but has always been difficult to understand and investigate due to its subjective nature. Practical Pain Management is written for all those involved in the care of people suffering from pain. The authors explain why pain is so often disregarded and poorly managed by clinicians. With an emphasis on the practical management of both chronic and acute pain, the book explores the mechanisms involved in pain percepetion, the use of analgesic drugs, local anesthetics, nerve blocks and stimulation techniques. The rehabilitation and care of patients whose pain cannot be adequately relieved is also considered and some ways in which specialist pain services can help with chronic pain syndromes are described. This comprehensive guide will help all those caring for patients in pain to have a better understanding of pain and to work more effectively towards its management.

This book provides an up-to-date account of how to deal with the major chronic pain syndromes, including back pain, body and myofascial pain, malignant diseases, neurogenic pain, and headaches. It covers the background knowledge required in practice, and gives clear and concise advice on managing patients who suffer chronic pain. This book is not a technical manual but provides the essential practical information required for effective patient management.