Season Two, Episode Nineteen: Neuroplasticity, Chronic Pain, and the Pain/Fear Cycle

Recent developments in the area of neuropsychology have highlighted the role of neuroplasticity in the perception of chronic pain. In this episode we will first examine current research about neuroplasticity and how it relates to the perception of sensations within the body and the interpretation of these sensations as chronic pain. The long-standing neuroscientific principle, “neurons that fire together, wire together,” will be explored in its application to the phenomenon of ongoing pain.

Next, we will take an in-depth look at what pain is. We will discuss the differences between acute and chronic pain and explore what the purpose of pain is in terms of its function in human survival. Contrary to popular belief, there is not one “pain center” in the brain that is responsible for our experience of it. Recent research has highlighted over 40 different regions of the brain involved with sensing, interpreting, and either increasing or decreasing our perceived level of pain. As the acute pain of an injury begins to resolve and becomes chronic pain that persists over time, different regions of the brain become involved. From this recent research we have begun to understand the role that narrative, meaning-making, and attention play in facilitating the persistence of chronic pain. The dramatic case of a worker being injured on a job site will be discussed as it highlights the role of narrative in shaping our experience of pain. 

Finally, we will take a look at the pain/fear cycle. We will discuss research that highlights key aspects of the epidemic of chronic back pain, which is the leading cause of disability designations in the United States. We will also briefly touch on several excellent resources that are recommended if you would like to learn more about chronic pain the role of neuroplasticity, and current thinking about effective treatment for chronic pain.

A better understanding of the role neuroplasticity plays in the perception of pain facilitates the effective use of psychological interventions for managing and potentially recovering from chronic pain.