Understanding Central Sensitisation Syndrome and Chronic Pain

​Central Sensitisation Syndrome (CSS) is a condition where the nervous system becomes overly sensitive to pain stimuli, leading to chronic pain that persists even after an injury has healed. This heightened sensitivity occurs due to changes in the brain and spinal cord, making normal sensations feel painful and amplifying discomfort. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, and chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome etc, are often linked to central sensitisation.(1) Symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating, commonly known as "brain fog."
Managing CSS requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the nervous system's hypersensitivity and overall well-being. Lifestyle modifications, stress management, physical therapy, and tailored pain management strategies are key components of treatment. Many CSS sufferers and medical professionals focus on the “pain” itself, however, are yet to address the biological, phycological and social factors that are in play. Research has found biophychosocial factors are a significant influence in people living with chronic pain.(1) For example, CSS sufferers with poor sleep, socially unsupported, unstable income etc, are likely to experience greater amounts of disability compared to those more supported.
 
How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Chronic Pain
Chiropractic care can be a valuable tool in managing chronic pain associated with central sensitisation. Soft tissue techniques, spinal manipulations, acupuncture, aerobic exercises are some of the key component that are proved to be effective in managing chronic pain.(2, 3) On top of that, stress reduction techniques can be a crucial part for ones healing journey. Have a chat to one of our chiropractors in sprouting health and see how we can help manage your concerns with our variety of different techniques we offer. 

 
Reference

1.         Adams LM, Turk DC. Psychosocial factors and central sensitivity syndromes. Curr Rheumatol Rev. 2015;11(2):96-108.
2.         Schneider M, Vernon H, Ko G, Lawson G, Perera J. Chiropractic Management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2009;32(1):25-40.
3.         Vernon H, Schneider M. Chiropractic Management of Myofascial Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2009;32(1):14-24.