Thank you Dr Carlo Rinaudo for this presentation on Central Sensitization. This concept explains how when we experience pain over longer time frames it can start to alter the shape and structure of the brain. This can then affect 'neighbouring real estate' or areas of the brain that are not directly correlated with the region of the body that once was damaged or receiving pain signals. Global (in the brain) connectivity is an important realization for our health!

Key Ideas

Central sensitization is the amplification of pain within the central nervous system.

Pain that is prolonged can start to change the brain.

Increased areas of irritation or sensitivity in the brain start to change the function or feeling in the body.

For Chronic Pain:

• severity does not equal the degree of tissue damage

• location does not necessarily reflect the cause of the pain

• feeling does not always mean there is a tissue signal from the body - ie. it can be produced entirely within the brain

Retraining the brain is possible through different sensory stimuli according to what specifically has been reduced.

The disorganised brain due to pain can be rebuilt with both expert and at home care.

Just by reading this you have helped alter your neural pathways! (see gallery)