Acetyl‐L‐carnitine for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Abstract Plain language summary Acetyl‐L‐carnitine for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy The aim of this review The aim of this review was to assess the effects of acetyl‐L‐carnitine (ALC) on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in people with diabetes. We were particularly interested in whether ALC could relieve pain, and also aimed to identify any harmful […]
Herbal medicinal products or preparations for neuropathic pain
Abstract Neuropathic pain is a consequence of damage to the central nervous system (CNS), for example, cerebrovascular accident, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury, or peripheral nervous system (PNS), for example, painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN), postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), or surgery. Evidence suggests that people suffering from neuropathic pain are likely to seek alternative modes of […]
Acupuncture and related interventions for the treatment of symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome
Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a compressive neuropathic disorder at the level of the wrist. Acupuncture and other methods that stimulate acupuncture points, such as electroacupuncture, auricular acupuncture, laser acupuncture, moxibustion, and acupressure, are used in treating CTS. Acupuncture has been recommended as a potentially useful treatment for CTS, but its effectiveness remains […]
Cannabis-based medicines for chronic neuropathic pain in adults
Abstract Background This review is one of a series on drugs used to treat chronic neuropathic pain. Estimates of the population prevalence of chronic pain with neuropathic components range between 6% and 10%. Current pharmacological treatment options for neuropathic pain afford substantial benefit for only a few people, often with adverse effects that outweigh the […]
Absorbable versus non-absorbable sutures for skin closure after carpal tunnel decompression surgery
Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common problem and surgical decompression of the carpal tunnel is the most effective treatment. After surgical decompression, the palmar skin may be closed using either absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. To date, there is conflicting evidence regarding the ideal suture material and this formed the rationale for our review. […]
Invasive versus non-invasive ventilation for acute respiratory failure in neuromuscular disease and chest wall disorders
Abstract Background Acute respiratory failure is a common life-threatening complication of acute onset neuromuscular diseases, and may exacerbate chronic hypoventilation in patients with neuromuscular disease or chest wall disorders. Standard management includes oxygen supplementation, physiotherapy, cough assistance, and, whenever needed, antibiotics and intermittent positive pressure ventilation. Non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) via nasal, buccal or full-face […]
Acupuncture for neuropathic pain in adults
Abstract Background Neuropathic pain may be caused by nerve damage, and is often followed by changes to the central nervous system. Uncertainty remains regarding the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture treatments for neuropathic pain, despite a number of clinical trials being undertaken. Objectives To assess the analgesic efficacy and adverse events of acupuncture treatments for […]
Oxcarbazepine for neuropathic pain
Abstract Background Several anticonvulsant drugs are used in the management of neuropathic pain. Oxcarbazepine is an anticonvulsant drug closely related to carbamazepine. Oxcarbazepine has been reported to be efficacious in the treatment of neuropathic pain, but evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) is conflicting. Oxcarbazepine is reportedly better tolerated than carbamazepine. This is the first […]
Corticosteroids for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Abstract Background Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a progressive or relapsing and remitting paralysing illness, probably due to an autoimmune response, which should benefit from corticosteroid treatment. Non‐randomised studies suggest that corticosteroids are beneficial. Two commonly used corticosteroids are prednisone and prednisolone. Both are usually given as oral tablets. Prednisone is converted into prednisolone […]
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for neuropathic pain in adults
Abstract Background Neuropathic pain, which is due to nerve disease or damage, represents a significant burden on people and society. It can be particularly unpleasant and achieving adequate symptom control can be difficult. Non-pharmacological methods of treatment are often employed by people with neuropathic pain and may include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This review […]