Dealing with Chronic Pain

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Pain signals originate in the brain, but research has only recently begun to identify its neural circuitry.

The DMN is a group of interconnected brain regions involved in identity formation and internal narrative.

With chronic pain, DMN activity indicates the brain is continuously engaged with internal self-monitoring.

New research recommends approaches to disentangle the physical sensation of chronic pain from a sense of self.

According to the World Health Organization, low back pain is the most prevalent chronic pain condition and the leading cause of disability worldwide. In 2020, low back pain affected 619 million people globally.[1]

Low back pain (LBP) describes pain between the lower edge of the ribs and the buttock, and it can be acute (short-term) or chronic. Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is defined by pain that lasts more than 3 months. Chronic pain tends to have ongoing adverse effects on mental and emotional well-being, as well as overall quality of life. It can limit work and recreational activities, as well as engagement with family and friends.

Chronic low back pain can be specific or non-specific. Specific cLBP is pain caused by a particular disease or structural issue related to the spine, or when the pain radiates from another part of the body to that area. Non-specific cLBP is when no disease or structural reason to explain the pain can be identified. Importantly, cLBP is non-specific in approximately 90% of cases. Yet treatments for cLBP—and non-specific cLBP in particular—often fail to provide significant relief.

The Connection Between Chronic Pain and Sense of Self

Pain signals originate in the brain, but research has only recently begun to identify its specific neural circuitry.........

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