The Role of Autonomic Nervous System in Pain Chronicity

Abstract

The role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in chronic pain (CP) and in its chronicity is considered secondary and reactive to the nociceptive processes in the somatic nervous system (SomNS). However, research and clinical data strongly suggest the opposite. The ANS is an ancient, complex and ample part of the nervous system. It serves and controls visceral organs and somatic tissues. The ANS takes part in all aspects of all types of pain and influences its mechanisms at both peripheral and central levels. In this chapter we bring together the evidence from biomedical disciplines and clinical practice to support an alternative theory which contradicts the traditional views on the subject. We also raise questions which require further research to consolidate facts, advance our knowledge and improve treatment strategies for CP. The importance of this topic is difficult to overestimate because of the significant impact of CP on society and the lack of understanding, efficient therapy or cure.