Pain

Pain experiences in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are no less common than in other populations; however, the expression of pain can be ambiguous, making assessment and management a challenge. Assessment tools and management techniques are becoming available, but given the heterogeneity of cognitive and communicative function, applications of standard approaches vary greatly. Even with improved understanding of pain and how it might be influenced by the underlying disability, our ability to manage pain among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities remains a significant challenge. The practical assessment and management techniques currently available are discussed, including approaches to consider when standard approaches fail.