A systematic review of brain health in adults with chronic pain.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Recent research has linked chronic pain with an increased risk of clinical dementia diagnosis. Yet structural and functional brain changes associated with chronic pain and their potential role in accelerating brain ageing have not been characterised comprehensively. Understanding these effects is crucial to developing targeted prevention and management strategies.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of all English language articles in MEDLINE and Embase. Studies were eligible if they compared neuroimaging, clinical, biological, cognitive or mental health outcomes in adults with chronic pain to healthy controls. Following screening, data were extracted and the risk of bias was assessed.

Results

Of 5805 identified studies, 365 met the inclusion criteri

SUBMITTER: Lee A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12803547 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature