In palliative medicine, the most widely used classification is pragmatic, based on recognisable clusters of pain symptoms that are associated with response to specific therapeutic interventions.

• Neuropathic - Characterised by disordered sensation, responsive adjuvants such as anti-convulsants and anti-depressants.
• Bone pain - Characterised by intense and focal nature, responsive to adjuvants such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and bisphosphonates.
• Muscle spasm - Characterised by responsiveness to muscle relaxants and anti-spasmodics.
• Cerebral irritation - Characterised by association with acute brain injury and signs of anxiety, responsive to adjuvants such as benzodiazepines.