Pain in haemophilia

Acute pain^1,3–5

• Sudden short-term pain, lasting hours or days
• May feel like throbbing, sharp pain or tenderness

More about acute pain

Acute pain is caused by bleeding into a joint (haemarthrosis) that may happen after an injury.¹

During a bleed, the affected joint may swell suddenly, and the area might feel hot, stiff and painful.^1,3

Chronic pain^1,3–5

• Persistent longer-term pain, lasting months or longer
• May feel like aching, stiffness or ongoing discomfort

More about chronic pain

Chronic pain is caused by joint damage as a result of repeated bleeds (chronic haemophilic arthropathy).^1,4

Joint damage can lead to long-term stiffness, limited movement and chronic pain.^1,3,4

R.I.C.E method (within 24 to 48 hours)^4,5,7,8

Protects from further injury and helps reduce bleeding and swelling.

R.I.C.E. can help remind you of the steps to take to help treat an injury:^4,5

• Rest the joint and use a splint to limit movement
• Apply ice (in a towel or plastic bag)
• Compress using a bandage or elastic wrap
• Elevate (raise) the affected limb above heart level

Prompt treatment^1,8

Acute pain caused by a bleed* typically lessens after treatment with clotting factor therapy.

*Pain can also occur without a bleed.

Following doctor's instructions, treatment should be given as early as possible after a bleed is detected.^1,8

Relaxation techniques⁴

Help reduce tension and stress.

Hypnosis, meditation and controlled breathing can help cope with pain.⁴

Surgery^1,9,10

To restore or correct the affected joint.

Severe joint damage associated with chronic pain and disability may require orthopaedic surgery.^1,9,10

Protection from bleeds^1,8

Future bleeds can be prevented with prophylactic therapy.

A review of haemophilia treatment may be helpful if bleeds occur while on prophylactic therapy.

Pain relievers^5,8

Over-the-counter or prescription pain relief medicines may be appropriate.

Always seek doctor's advice as certain medicines can interfere with clotting.^5,8

Physical therapy^4,8,11

Helps manage pain and restore joint function.

Physiotherapists can also teach exercises for recovery at home.¹¹

Daily life¹²

Being less able to carry out everyday tasks.

Connecting with others^12,13

Wanting to socialise less with others. Having a low mood (feeling irritable, tense or withdrawn) that impacts relationships.

Enjoying yourself¹²

Being less involved in usual leisure activities.

Personal growth^12,13

Feeling less productive and needing to take time off work or study.

Engage in low-intensity exercise^4,11,14

Easing into a routine that suits you can help improve mood, mobility and pain.

Sleep well^14,15

A good night’s sleep boosts mood. If you struggle to sleep because of pain, ask your healthcare team for support.

Find a way to relax and reduce tension^4,14

Meditating or breathing exercises won’t necessarily make the pain go away but may help you cope.

Stay in control^1,13

Unhealthy behaviours to help cope with pain (for example, becoming dependent on substances) can lead to other health issues. If you relate to this, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.