A dynamic network perspective of chronic pain

Neurosci Lett. 2012 Jun 29;520(2):197-203. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.05.001. Epub 2012 May 8.

Abstract

We briefly summarize recent advances regarding brain functional representation of chronic pain, reorganization of resting state brain activity, and of brain anatomy with chronic pain. Based on these observations and recent theoretical advances regarding network architecture properties, we develop a general concept of the dynamic interplay between anatomy and function as the brain progresses into persistent pain, and outline the role of mesolimbic learning mechanisms that are likely involved in maintenance of chronic pain.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Avoidance Learning
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Chronic Pain / pathology*
  • Chronic Pain / physiopathology*
  • Chronic Pain / psychology
  • Emotions
  • Humans
  • Nerve Net / pathology*
  • Nerve Net / physiopathology*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / pathology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / physiopathology
  • Neuronal Plasticity