Types of Pain & Pain Pathways

Describes some of the effects of chronic pain on the brain. Lists the major chronic pain disorders and their treatments. Explains the differences between migraine and tension headaches. Identifies the major sources of back pain and their effective treatments. Describes the differences between trigger points and tender points. Lists methods and techniques of lowering the risk of chronic pain disorders. Discusses the concept of multidisciplinary pain management. Describes the applications of non-pharmacologic pain treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and meditation.

Inflammation, in its broadest sense, is the body’s response to tissue injury. Acute inflammation is typically of short duration, is nonspecific, and may be triggered by any injury. On the other hand, when the inflammation has a slow onset and persists for weeks or months it is referred to as chronic. A major difference between acute and chronic inflammation is that the former is restricted to a specific tissue or organ, whereas the latter affects the lining of the blood vessels throughout the body. In this sense, chronic inflammation is systemic. Chronic, systemic inflammation has been implicated as a major causative factor for several major diseases, including cardiovascular disease, retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Detection of chronic inflammation is essential in order to prevent and control these disease processes. This course is designed to help clinicians understand the underlying physiological mechanisms that lead to chronic, systemic inflammation so that they may be more capable of assisting patients in avoiding unnecessary suffering, disability, and expense.

Lists and describe the six basic emotions that have unique facial expressions. Explains the difference between emotions and moods. Discusses the relationship between emotions, moods, and pain. Identifies brain structures and neurochemicals that play a role in both moods and pain. Discusses the relationship of pain to both acute stress and chronic stress. Lists the similarities between stress management and pain management. Identifies the similar brain areas involved in both physical and emotional pain. Explains the interactions between anxiety disorders, depression, and pain. Discusses cognitive behavioral therapy and its role in pain management.