The pathophysiology of neuropathic pain is complex, involving both central and peripheral neural pathways. Anticonvulsants, while primarily known for treating seizures, are also used in neuropathic pain management.

The spine is made up of segments consisting of two vertebrae and interconnecting soft tissues. The integration of the biomechanical characteristics of these individual spinal components provides the overall strength and structure of the spine to protect the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Chemodenervation is the blockade of neuronal signaling at the neuromuscular junction using botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT).

It is common to use injectable agents to treat a variety of musculoskeletal and neurologic complaints. Intrathecally or percutaneously, these agents are injected into neuromusculoskeletal structures. Various agents are used in current practice. For the most encountered injectable pharmacologic treatments, this article summarizes their mechanism of action, indications, contra-indications, adverse effects, and current practice guidelines.

Joint injections and aspirations are valuable procedures for managing musculoskeletal conditions, both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. As with any procedure, success depends on knowing the correct diagnosis, correct procedure, and using the best medication.

CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) are sophisticated, noninvasive imaging modalities utilized for targeted evaluations of the body. The information obtained from these tests often help to establish a diagnosis and guide treatment.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications used to reduce inflammation and to relieve pain. They are one of the most commonly used medications in adults. NSAIDs are frequently used for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.

Electrodiagnosis (EDX) is an integral part of physical medicine and rehabilitation practice. A referral for electrodiagnostic studies is indicated when the clinician is uncertain about the etiology of neuromuscular symptoms, diagnosing and/or confirming a clinical picture, or seeking prognostic information.

Radiography is performed by transmitting ionizing electromagnetic radiation through bony structures and soft tissue, producing an image based on the absorption of X-ray photons. It is the most commonly used diagnostic imaging study.

Physiatrists use specialized musculoskeletal tests to examine the structural integrity of joints, muscles, and tendons and assess joint stability and strength.

This article examines several spine procedures used by physiatrists to help manage pain, including epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, and more.

Steroid injections play a prominent role in musculoskeletal care and pain management in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This article reviews steroid pharmacology, various types of steroids, indications, basic techniques, adverse effects, and complications.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to image and visualize bones, joints, tendons, muscles, bursae, ligaments, cartilage, nerves, fascia, and related soft tissue in the body for the purposes of diagnosing pathology or guiding real-time interventional procedures.