Does Chronic Pain Age the Brain?
A debilitating condition that affects millions
Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent pain that lasts for more than three months and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. However, a recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shed new light on the long-term effects of chronic pain on the brain.
The study found that a single site of chronic pain in a 60-year-old was sufficient to age the brain by a year. The researchers used MRI scans to measure the brains of 47 healthy adults between the ages of 19 and 77. They then compared the brain scans of those who reported chronic pain in one area of their body with those who did not report any chronic pain.
The results showed that individuals with chronic pain had smaller volumes of gray matter in areas of the brain that are associated with pain processing, emotion regulation, and cognitive function. Additionally, the researchers found that the extent of brain aging was directly related to the duration of chronic pain.
The study’s findings have significant implications for individuals suffering from chronic pain. It suggests that chronic pain not only affects the affected area but also has far-reaching effects on the brain. Chronic pain can lead to cognitive decline, emotional disturbances, and reduced quality of life. Therefore, it is crucial to manage chronic pain effectively to prevent long-term damage to the brain.
In addition to medical interventions, lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in managing chronic pain. Exercise, relaxation techniques, and a healthy diet can all help to reduce the severity of chronic pain and promote overall well-being. Additionally, social support from family and friends can help individuals cope with the emotional impact of chronic pain.
Individuals suffering from chronic pain can also benefit from using bioelectronic devices like the WellnessPro Plus ®. The WellnessPro Plus® is a portable bioelectronic device that uses microcurrent therapy to provide pain relief and promote healing.
Microcurrent therapy is a non-invasive form of electrical stimulation that uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. It works by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers.
The WellnessPro Plus® is designed to be used on specific areas of the body where chronic pain is present. It can provide targeted pain relief without the use of medication or invasive procedures. Additionally, the device is easy to use and can be used in the comfort of your own home.
Using the WellnessPro in combination with other pain management strategies can help individuals manage their chronic pain effectively. By reducing the severity of pain, individuals can engage in physical activity, which can promote overall health and well-being. The device can also help individuals reduce their reliance on pain medication, which can have harmful side effects.
Electromedical Technologies is the manufacturer of the WellnessPro Plus ®, an FDA CLEARED device offering nearly 1 million frequencies tailored for the relief of chronic, intractable pain as an adjunctive treatment of post-surgical or post-traumatic acute pain.
Find out more by visiting the product page.