TY - JOUR
T1 - Cortical changes in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
AU - Swart, C.M.
AU - Stins, J.F.
AU - Beek, P.J.
PY - 2009
Y1 - 2009
N2 - Recent research suggests that changes in cortical structures can contribute to the pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This review provides an overview of studies showing cortical involvement in CRPS, including mislocalizations of tactile stimuli, changes in size and organization of the somatosensory map, changes in motor cortex representation and body perception disturbances. In addition, we review experimental treatment approaches, such as mirror therapy and motor imagery programs, aimed at restoring the integrity of neural processing in the sensory-motor cortex in individuals with CRPS. The intervention effects are promising and can be theoretically motivated on the basis of established principles of neural organization, although important questions concerning the precise neural mechanisms of action remain unanswered. © 2008 European Federation of International Association for the Study of Pain Chapters.
AB - Recent research suggests that changes in cortical structures can contribute to the pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This review provides an overview of studies showing cortical involvement in CRPS, including mislocalizations of tactile stimuli, changes in size and organization of the somatosensory map, changes in motor cortex representation and body perception disturbances. In addition, we review experimental treatment approaches, such as mirror therapy and motor imagery programs, aimed at restoring the integrity of neural processing in the sensory-motor cortex in individuals with CRPS. The intervention effects are promising and can be theoretically motivated on the basis of established principles of neural organization, although important questions concerning the precise neural mechanisms of action remain unanswered. © 2008 European Federation of International Association for the Study of Pain Chapters.
U2 - 10.1016/j.ejpain.2008.11.010
DO - 10.1016/j.ejpain.2008.11.010
M3 - Article
SN - 1090-3801
VL - 13
SP - 902
EP - 907
JO - European Journal of Pain
JF - European Journal of Pain
IS - 9
ER -