Chronic back pain causes brain shrinkage

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In summary, the conversation discussed the possible mechanism for decreased gray matter in chronic pain patients, which is overuse atrophy caused by excitotoxic and inflammatory mechanisms. This was hypothesized by a researcher at Northwestern University, who suggested that chronic pain causes continuous stimulation of certain brain regions, leading to the production of excitotoxins and an inflammatory response that results in loss of brain cells.
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  • #2
I didn't catch a mechanism of why that might happen.
 
  • #3
Mk said:
I didn't catch a mechanism of why that might happen.
Here is one hypothesis that was stated:
“Given that, by definition, chronic pain is a state of continuous persistent perception with associated negative affect and stress, one mechanistic explanation for the decreased gray matter is overuse atrophy caused by excitotoxic and inflammatory mechanisms,” Apkarian said."
 
  • #4
I have no idea what that red part means. He's saying parts of the guys' brains were overused?
 
  • #5
Mk said:
I have no idea what that red part means. He's saying parts of the guys' brains were overused?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerebral_atrophy"
http://www.biochem.northwestern.edu/holmgren/Glossary/Definitions/Def-E/excitotoxins.html"

Parts of the brain were chronically stimulated by the pain. This caused the production of the excitotoxins -----> inflammatory response-----> loss of brain cells.
 
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1. What is the connection between chronic back pain and brain shrinkage?

Recent studies have shown that individuals who suffer from chronic back pain may experience a decrease in brain volume, specifically in areas associated with pain processing and emotional regulation. This is due to changes in brain structure and function caused by persistent pain signals over time.

2. Can back pain actually cause the brain to shrink?

While back pain itself does not directly cause the brain to shrink, the constant experience of pain signals can lead to changes in brain structure and function over time. This can result in a decrease in brain volume, particularly in areas related to pain processing and emotional regulation.

3. Is brain shrinkage a common side effect of chronic back pain?

Research has shown that brain shrinkage can occur in individuals with chronic back pain, but it is not a universal side effect. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health can also play a role in determining whether or not an individual may experience brain shrinkage as a result of chronic back pain.

4. Can brain shrinkage from chronic back pain be reversed?

The effects of brain shrinkage from chronic back pain can potentially be reversed through proper treatment and management of the pain. This can include physical therapy, medication, and other pain management techniques. However, the extent and success of reversing brain shrinkage may vary from person to person.

5. Are there any long-term consequences of brain shrinkage from chronic back pain?

Brain shrinkage from chronic back pain can potentially have long-term consequences, such as changes in cognitive function, mood, and overall quality of life. Therefore, it is important to seek proper treatment and management for chronic back pain to potentially prevent or minimize these consequences.

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