Evidence of Pain Neuroscience Education on Musculoskeletal Disorders: An Updated Review

Abstract

Pain neuroscience education ( PNE) is a new concept which helps the patients to modulate their pain perception and experiences. The concept has shown effectiveness, comparable to other pain-relieving modalities including manual therapies.The objective of the current review is to explore the mechanism on which pain neurosciences work and various methodologies to implement pain neuroscience education. The current literature of pain neurosciences education has ben reviewed and the evidences synthesised to explore the above objectives. Pain neuroscience education takes into account the complexity of a pain experience and aids patients in redefining pain by educating them on the various neurophysiological, neurobiological, social, and physical factors that may be present in their particular pain experience. The main objective of PNE is to assist individuals in rethinking their chronic pain. The mechanism through which PNE works is reframing the way we think about pain. It is important to accept that in chronic pain, pain is not a direct measure of tissue damage and more chronic the pain it becomes less reliable gauge for tissue damage. It is also important to note that pain is influences by physical, psychological and social factors According to research, pain neuroscience education is a successful therapy technique for a number of chronic pain subtypes, including whiplash-related pain, neck pain in teenagers, and pain from lumbar surgery, complicated regional pain syndrome, and low back pain. PNE has advantages for participants from early adolescence to old persons. Pain Neuroscience Education is an effective method of managing pain and may be used by the physiotherapist to manage the patients with musculoskeletal conditions Chronic musculoskeletal pain is very common complaint and research shows that pain neuroscience education is effective in pain management and physiotherapists should utilize the concept in patients as it improves patient engagement in health care.