Pain in Infants, Children and Adolescents

Pain in infants, children, and adolescents is a complex and often challenging issue. Children may not be able to express their pain in the same way as adults, and healthcare providers must rely on a variety of cues to assess and manage pain in this population.

Here are some common types of pain in infants, children, and adolescents:

Acute pain: Acute pain is usually caused by an injury or illness and is typically short-lived. Examples include postoperative pain, headache, or pain associated with medical procedures.

Chronic pain: Chronic pain is pain that persists for more than 3 months and can be caused by conditions such as juvenile arthritis, sickle cell disease, or cancer.

Procedural pain: Procedural pain is pain associated with medical procedures such as injections, blood draws, or dressing changes.

Phantom pain: Phantom pain is pain that is felt in a body part that has been amputated or removed.

Managing pain in infants, children, and adolescents may involve a combination of approaches, including:

Non-pharmacologic therapies: Distraction techniques, relaxation techniques, and guided imagery may be helpful in reducing pain and anxiety.

Pharmacologic therapies: Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used to relieve pain in children. In some cases, stronger medications such as opioids may be necessary.

Local anesthetics: Topical anesthetics such as lidocaine or EMLA cream may be used to numb the skin before medical procedures.

Nerve blocks: Injecting a local anesthetic or steroid into the nerves that supply the affected area can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion may be helpful in reducing pain and improving function.

It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan for pain in infants, children, and adolescents. This may involve a combination of therapies tailored to the individual child's needs and preferences.