Nociceptive and Neuropathic Pain

by Cathy Parkes December 02, 2020 Updated: December 29, 2021

Nociceptive pain is caused by tissue damage or inflammation. This type of pain is often described as "aching" or "throbbing".

Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage. This type of pain is often described as "shooting" or "burning".

Cathy Parkes

Lordosis, Kyphosis, and Scoliosis

Lordosis (excessive curvature of the lumbar spine) is a common finding in pregnancy and in toddlers. Kyphosis (excessive curvature of the thoracic spine) is a common finding in the older adults. Scoliosis (lateral curvature of the spine) is always abnormal.

Tension Pneumothorax

A patient with a tension pneumothorax is likely to have tracheal deviation towards the unaffected side. Assess respiratory status in any patient with this finding!