Pain in children with cerebral palsy: a review.
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) face many challenges including impaired motor control and coordination, functional impairment, sensory disturbances, and, sometimes, communication difficulties and cognitive deficits. Pain also may be a problem for children with CP due in part to the inherent deficits associated with the disease, as well as the invasive medical and surgical procedures and rehabilitative activities children with CP undergo on a regular basis. A review of current literature indicates pain is a common experience for children with CP and has been understudied in this population. Further emphasis and research on appropriate assessment and management strategies sensitive to the unique characteristics and limitations of children with CP are warranted.
McKearnan
Kimberly A
KA
Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, USA. mckearna@ohsu.edu
Kieckhefer
Gail M
GM
Engel
Joyce M
JM
Jensen
Mark P
MP
Labyak
Susan
S
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000150:complications*; D002648:Child; D002669:Child Welfare; D006801:Humans; D009048:Motor Skills; D020380:Needs Assessment; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D059408:Pain Management; D010147:Pain Measurement; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index