PAIN-CENTRAL SENSITIZATION

SUMMARY

1. Central sensitization refers to increased synaptic function triggered within the CNS by nociceptive inputs by an amplification of sensory experiences due to increased excitation or reduced inhibition.

2. The phenomenon was first described in the early 1980s and differs from wind-up, which represents a progressively increasing output during a train of identical stimuli.

3. Central sensitization involves the facilitation of nociceptive neurons in the spinal cord and can last for tens of minutes.

4. It is not limited to changes in synaptic strength but can also involve changes in microglia, astrocytes, gap junctions, membrane excitability, and gene transcription.

5. It can cause dynamic tactile allodynia and punctate hyperalgesia, which can spread to neighboring and remote areas & the phenomenon is reversible and can be detected using subjective and objective measures.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.