A Comparison of Neuropathic Pain Experiences Among Paralympic Versus Recreational Athletes with Spinal Cord Injury

Paralympic athletes with SCI report significantly greater neuropathic pain intensity than recreational athletes with SCI, but also higher levels of positive affect and well-being. Neither pain catastrophizing, pain coping, nor positive affect and well-being significantly moderated the relationship between athlete status (i.e., Paralympic or recreational athlete) and neuropathic pain intensity.Significant, positive correlations were observed between total weekly moderate-intensity exercise and neuropathic pain. No significant correlations were observed between frequency of heavy-intensity exercise and neuropathic pain .