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Chronic Pain Impairs Brain Function

A study conducted at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine concluded pain triggers other symptoms, not immediately related to the sensation of pain. Under normal circumstances, all regions of the brain are in equilibrium with one another. When one portion of the brain is active, the other regions quiet down.

However, in chronic pain sufferers, a region in the front cortex of the brain which is mostly associated with emotion, never rests. As a result, chronic pain sufferers may struggle to make decisions, have trouble sleeping, and may feel anxious or depressed due to the disruption in the functioning of the brain. This constant activation of neurons in restless portions of the brain may lead to permanent damage and changes in wiring of the brain. Another study conducted at the University of Alberta has discovered chronic pain can impair your memory and attention span. Researchers believe pain may interrupt the ability for people to remember information needed to concentrate, function, and maintain long term memories.

Northwestern University (2008, February 6). Chronic Pain Harms The Brain. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 14, 2009, from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080205171755.htm

University of Alberta (2007, May 18). Chronic Pain Can Impair Memory. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 14, 2009, from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070517142536.htm