Abstract Postherpetic neuralgia is one of the most difficult pain syndromes to treat. It affects 10% of patients with acute herpes zoster. Although the reason that this painful condition occurs…

Abstract Essentially all patients who undergo thoracotomy suffer from acute postoperative pain. This acute pain syndrome invariably responds to the rational use of systemic and spinal opioids, as well as…

Abstract Fractured ribs are among the most common causes of chest wall pain; they are usually associated with trauma to the chest wall. In osteoporotic patients or in patients with…

Abstract Precordial catch syndrome, also known as Texidor’s twinge, is a common cause of chest wall pain. Occurring most frequently in adolescents and young adults, precordial catch syndrome is the…

Abstract Sesamoiditis is characterized by tenderness and pain over the flexor aspect of the thumb or, much less commonly, the index finger. When grasping something, the patient often feels that…

Abstract Many patients with noncardiogenic chest pain suffer from costosternal joint pain. Most commonly, the costosternal joints become painful in response to inflammation as a result of overuse or misuse…

Abstract Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy encountered in clinical practice. It is caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal canal…

Abstract Trigger finger is caused by inflammation and swelling of the tendon of the flexor digitorum superficialis resulting from compression by the head of the metacarpal bone. Sesamoid bones in…

Abstract Dupuytren’s contracture is a common complaint. Although it is initially painful, the pain seems to decrease as the condition progresses. As a result, patients suffering from Dupuytren’s contracture generally…

Abstract Plastic bag palsy is an entrapment neuropathy of the digital nerves caused by compression of the nerves against the bony phalanges by the handles of a plastic bag. The…