Lifted from PubMed -- where I was directed by MedWorm, "the Internet's medical router... over 6000 authoritative RSS feeds go in... hundreds of new RSS feeds by category come out..."
December 18, 2008 European Journal of Pain
Cortical changes in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
Karin Swart CM, Stins JF, Beek PJ.
Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Recent research suggests that changes in cortical structures can contribute to the pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This review provides an overview of studies showing cortical involvement in CRPS, including mislocalizations of tactile stimuli, changes in size and organization of the somatosensory map, changes in motor cortex representation and body perception disturbances. In addition, we review experimental treatment approaches, such as mirror therapy and motor imagery programs, aimed at restoring the integrity of neural processing in the sensory-motor cortex in individuals with CRPS. The intervention effects are promising and can be theoretically motivated on the basis of established principles of neural organization, although important questions concerning the precise neural mechanisms of action remain unanswered.
PMID: 19101181 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Hi Bianca
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post. Actually quite a lot is known about the part the brain plays in CRPS and other chronic pains. In the past treatment was aimed at the symptoms. Now by brain retraining methods we are able to target the control center. I believe that many drug treatments fail as they do not address the cause. There is a great deal of research about this. I use mirror therapy with great benefit. I recommend to you DR Lorimer Moseley and David Butler's book, "Explain Pain". The Neur Orthopedic Institute of Australia (NoiGroup) has this. They have a particular interest in this area. As a Professor you will have access to papers by DR Moseley. If not please post a comment on my blog and I'll send you copies of documents Lorimer has passed on.
Click on "mirror therapy" tags on my blog for more on this and there is a section deveoted to mirror therapy links. Mirror therpay isn't the only effective brain retraining method. Physical movement/therapy/massage etc helps to clear the smudged neurotag. A little and often is wise with CRPS in order not to over stimulate and cause an "overdid it and pay for it later" situation. Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture appears to work in a similar way to mirror therapy and is very potent.Here is a link to my blog and then to the NoiGRoup if interested.
http://crps-rsd-a-better-life.blogspot.com/
http://www.noigroup.com/
jeisea
Hi jeisea,
ReplyDeleteWe've spoken before, but in passing; I enjoy your blog.
I post what seems interesting as it comes down the pike -- unfortunately most of it is not applicable to my circumstances.
As a syndrome rather than a disease, CRPS will never have a magic bullet "cure," but can certainly be managed by most people. I don't denigrate symptomatic treatment -- having had every effort at proactivity fail! Yes, yes, I know -- *thus far*!
Until late last year, I followed a rigorous PT regime that did wonders for my mood, and hence my capacity to tolerate pain -- but it badly exacerbated problems with my bones and connective tissue (and don't shoot "water therapy" back at me, please!).
Ah well. We do what we can, and hopefully more.
I wish you much success in retraining your brain and taming the CRPS beasties -- and thank you for sharing your experiences on your terrific blog!
Stop by anytime you want to hide out from the world...
and be well!
Prof