Psychosocial Aspects of Neuroma Management

Every cut nerve results in some degree of permanent pathophysiology. A small subset of patients with nerve laceration develop notable discomfort, hypersensitivity, and incapability that may be diagnosed as a neuroma. Given that pain intensity and magnitude of incapability are closely tied to thoughts and emotions, comprehensive care strategies can be formulated within the biopsychosocial paradigm. Specifically, unhelpful thoughts about pain (cognitive errors, often measured as kinesiophobia, catastrophic thinking, and negative pain thoughts) and symptoms of distress (symptoms of worry and despair) can be anticipated. When people seek care for discomfort and incapability related to nerve injury, we can be strategic about prioritizing a trusting relationship with the patient, choosing the healthiest words and concepts, and using diagnostic and treatment strategies that help reorient unhelpful thoughts and alleviate distress.