Before And Beyond The Pain – Allostatic Load, Central Sensitivity And Their Role In Health And Function

The document explored the increasing prevalence of persistent pain, affecting about 20% of the global population, and examined central sensitization and central sensitivity syndromes (CSS) as explanations for conditions like fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. It discussed the role of nociplastic pain and allostatic load in central sensitization, highlighting that stressors can lead to allostatic overload and chronic pain. The document emphasized the need for better clinical understanding of central sensitization, suggesting that addressing psychological and physiological stressors could improve treatment outcomes. It introduced tools like the Allostatic Load Index and Central Sensitization Inventory to identify individuals at risk and advocated for a comprehensive approach to managing conditions associated with central sensitization. The paper also noted the potential increase in central sensitization cases due to the COVID-19 pandemic and suggested online coaching and health-promoting habits as management strategies.