Investigation of the neural basis of expectation-based analgesia in the human brainstem and spinal cord by means of functional magnetic resonance imaging.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The expected intensity of pain resulting from a noxious stimulus has been observed to have a strong influence on the pain that is perceived. The neural basis of pain reduction, as a result of expecting lower pain, was investigated using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in the brainstem and spinal cord.

Methods

Functional MRI studies were carried out in a region spanning the brainstem and cervical spinal cord in healthy participants. Participants were familiarized with a noxious heat stimulus and study procedures in advance, and were informed during each trial that either a heat calibrated to produce moderate pain (Base state), or a temperature 1 °C lower (Low state), would be applied to their hand. However, the Base temperature was applied in every trial.

SUBMITTER: Stroman PW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8333346 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Aug-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature