Brain networks for chronic pain involve different regions than those for acute pain
In short: A meta-analysis of neuroimaging and neuroelectrical studies found that the brain networks used to process acute pain differ from those engaged during chronic pain. Specifically, researchers observed that chronic pain engages brain regions responsible for cognitive and emotional assessments, suggesting that emotional processing may be a distinguishing feature between acute and chronic pain states.
This review of hemodynamic, neuroelectrical, and neurochemical studies highlights how the brain's supraspinal mechanisms modulate pain. By identifying the specific cortical and subcortical regions involved, researchers can better understand why pain becomes a disability.
The analysis was based on a large synthesis of existing literature, but the researchers noted that methodological differences between various laboratories can make it difficult to identify a single consistent brain network.
Why it matters: Chronic pain may be distinguished from acute pain by the involvement of brain regions used for emotional and cognitive processing.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Apkarian et al. (2005). Human brain mechanisms of pain perception and regulation in health and disease. European Journal of Pain.
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