Complications of Hemophilia

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8Complications of Hemophilia PART 3 - Pain in Hemophilia ■ What if the pain does not go away Ice, rest and medication may help to reduce pain, but they do not stop the bleeding. Clotting factor therapy is the only way to stop bleeding. If the regular treatment of clotting factor does not seem to relieve the pain, contact your hemophilia treatment centre immediately. Perhaps an inhibitor has developed. Or there may be another reason, besides a bleed, for your child’s pain. He could have a more serious injury, such as a broken bone, or a problem that is not related to his hemophilia. ■ What can be done for chronic pain Some people with hemophilia, particularly those with joint damage, suffer from chronic pain. There are several options available for the management of chronic pain. “Throughout my life I have had to deal with pain. Not all kids my age are in the same boat. My pain ranges quite a bit, from arthritic pain to the pain of bleeds caused by hemophilia.” Physiotherapy Physiotherapists have many ways to help reduce pain and will advise you regarding what’s right for your child. This is a short list of some of them. • Exercise – Specific exercises may help relieve joint or muscle stiffness. Exercises that strengthen muscles may also help to support damaged joints. • Walking aids – Using a cane or crutches can help to take the pressure off sore joints. • Splints or braces – These can help support damaged joints and prevent further injury. 8-22 All About Hemophilia A Guide for Families
PART 3 - Pain in Hemophilia 8Complications of Hemophilia Test Your Knowledge Which of these over-the-counter medications contain ASA and should never be given to a child with hemophilia a) aspirin b) Anacin c) Dristan d) 222 (For some help in finding the answers, see page 21 in this chapter.) (The correct answers are on page 17-18.) • Electrical modalities – Physiotherapists may use TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) to control pain. This works by sending a very mild current of electricity to the nerves which normally send pain messages to the brain. The electricity blocks the pain signals. • Hydrotherapy – Exercise in water is a good way to move joints and strengthen muscles. The buoyancy of the water takes the weight and pressure off the joints as they are exercised. • Relaxation and biofeedback – When a child is tense or worried, the pain may seem worse. Techniques to help relax and concentrate on other things besides the pain can help. Medications Medications may be used to reduce inflammation and to control pain. You and your child’s doctor should work together to find the right combination of medicine for his particular needs. Some people may be referred to a pain clinic where specialists assess and treat chronic pain. Always discuss your child’s pain management with your health care team. Other Alternatives There are many other ways to treat pain, such as acupuncture and chiropractic treatments. However, some of these alternatives may not be completely safe for people with hemophilia. Always check with your comprehensive care team before you try these kinds of treatments. All About Hemophilia A Guide for Families 8-23
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Complications of Hemophilia

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