Management of radicular pain in rheumatic disease: insight for the physician

Abstract

Rheumatologists are still relatively unaware of the causes, presentation, diagnosis and management of radicular pain. This is against a background of increasing evidence of the presence and importance of radicular problems in patients with rheumatological disorders. When they coexist in patients, differentiating between nociceptive and neuropathic pain is clinically important because these components require different pain management strategies. Consequently, it is essential that rheumatologists become skilled in identifying as well as managing both forms of pain. This review will serve to further increase awareness among rheumatologists of this important issue as well as discuss the practical aspects of managing these conditions. The evaluation of patients requires very careful history taking and full thorough neurological examination. Diagnostic testing is suggested mainly to confirm the diagnosis and aetiology in patients with persistent symptoms despite conservative treatment. Neuroimaging is recommended for patients with acute radicular pain with progressive neurological deficits or those with high suspicion of neoplasm or epidural abscess. If neuroimaging does not confirm diagnosis, electrophysiology studies may be helpful. The management of this condition is multifaceted and involves physicians and allied healthcare professionals as well as the patients who should be encouraged to participate in self-management programmes. Nociceptive and neuropathic pain often coexists in patients with rheumatic disease. There are challenges to making the diagnosis of radicular pain in these patients. The diagnosis is primarily clinical but pathophysiological issues, diversity in symptoms, the multiple mechanisms of action and difficulties in communication between patients and their doctors as well as variable response to therapy pose challenges to the effective management of these patients. Despite these difficulties and challenges, it is essential that rheumatologists familiarize themselves with the management of radicular pain in rheumatic diseases. The evaluation of patients requires very careful history taking, aided by the use of an appropriate screening tool and full, thorough neurological examination. In addition, investigations such as the use of imaging or electrophysiology studies when required may help to differentiate between the pain phenotypes.