What is Neuroplastic Pain?

Also known as Psychophysiologic Disorders, Mind-Body Syndrome, or Tension Myositis Syndrome.

Neuroplastic pain refers to chronic pain that persists even after the original injury has healed or in the absence of tissue damage. This type of pain arises due to changes in the brain and nervous system, where pain pathways become sensitized, often as a response to stress, trauma, or emotional factors. Neuroplastic pain is not caused by ongoing physical harm but by how the brain processes pain signals (Moseley, 2007). Research shows that the brain can be retrained to reduce or eliminate this pain through techniques that address emotional and psychological factors, such as pain reprocessing therapy and mindfulness-based interventions (Schubiner & Betzold, 2016).

References

  • Moseley, G. L. (2007). Reconceptualising pain according to modern pain science. Physical Therapy Reviews, 12(3), 169-178.
  • Schubiner, H., & Betzold, M. (2016). Unlearn Your Pain: A 28-Day Process to Reprogram Your Brain. Mind Body Publishing.
Neuroplastic Pain Self-Assessment

Recent clinical studies indicate that close to 90% of people with chronic pain suffer from learned faulty neural pain pathways in the brain, rather than structural causes. In the scientific literature, this is often referred to as “Neuroplastic Pain”, “Centralized Sensitization”, “Mindbody Syndrome” or “Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS)”.”

The Role of Pain

Pain serves as the body’s natural danger signal. When functioning properly, it alerts us to injury, helping to protect us by prompting action or rest. However, when pain becomes chronic without any ongoing tissue damage, it’s no longer fulfilling its intended role. This type of pain, known as neuroplastic pain, arises from the brain’s misinterpretation of danger signals, even when no physical harm is present.

Causes

Chronic pain can be fueled by a range of factors such as anxiety, stress, perfectionism, fear of injury, or suppressed emotions. These emotional and psychological triggers can unconsciously amplify pain signals, keeping the brain stuck in a heightened state of alertness. Although this process often occurs beneath our awareness, it is important to recognize that the brain is simply trying to protect us, even when no real threat exists.

Pain Reprocessing Therapy

The positive news is that just as the brain can learn to maintain a chronic pain state, it can also unlearn it. Techniques like Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and other mind-body approaches teach the brain to respond differently to these signals, gradually reducing pain over time. With consistent practice, the brain can create new, healthier neural pathways, allowing it to stop sending unnecessary pain signals and restore a sense of well-being.