Many people living with chronic pain feel frustrated when medical tests show “normal” results, yet their pain continues—or even worsens. If this sounds familiar, central sensitization may be the reason. At Kansas Pain Management, we help patients understand why pain can persist even without new injury and how it can be effectively managed.
What Is Central Sensitization?
Central sensitization is a condition in which the nervous system becomes overly sensitive, amplifying pain signals even when there is little or no tissue damage. Instead of pain turning off once an injury heals, the brain and spinal cord remain in a heightened state of alert.
This results in pain that feels more intense, more widespread, and longer-lasting than expected.
Why Pain Can Feel Worse Without New Injury
With central sensitization:
- The brain interprets normal sensations as painful
- Pain signals are amplified and prolonged
- The body’s “pain volume” stays turned up
This explains why:
- Pain may spread to new areas
- Light touch or mild movement becomes painful
- Symptoms fluctuate without a clear trigger
Importantly, this pain is real, not imagined, and not “all in your head.”
Common Symptoms of Central Sensitization
Patients with central sensitization may experience:
- Widespread or migrating pain
- Pain disproportionate to imaging findings
- Heightened sensitivity to touch, temperature, or pressure
- Fatigue and poor sleep
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Increased pain during stress or illness
Central sensitization is commonly associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, chronic back pain, and post-injury pain that doesn’t resolve.
Conditions Linked to Central Sensitization
Central sensitization may develop alongside:
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Migraines and chronic headaches
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Chronic post-surgical pain
Understanding this connection helps guide more effective treatment strategies.
How Is Central Sensitization Diagnosed?
There is no single test for central sensitization. Diagnosis is based on:
- Detailed symptom history
- Pain patterns that don’t match structural findings
- Review of prior imaging and treatments
- Clinical evaluation by a pain specialist
At Kansas Pain Management, we focus on identifying whether the nervous system itself is contributing to ongoing pain.
Treatment Options for Central Sensitization
While central sensitization cannot be “cured,” it can be successfully managed with a comprehensive approach.
1. Medications
Certain medications help calm overactive pain pathways rather than targeting inflammation alone.
2. Interventional Pain Management
Targeted injections or nerve treatments may help reduce persistent pain signals and allow the nervous system to reset.
3. Physical Therapy (Gentle, Graded Approach)
Movement is important, but it must be:
- Gradual
- Consistent
- Focused on function, not pain avoidance
4. Sleep and Stress Management
Poor sleep and stress significantly worsen pain sensitivity. Improving both is a critical part of treatment.
5. Pain Psychology and Education
Understanding how pain works helps patients:
- Reduce fear of movement
- Improve coping strategies
- Regain control over daily activities
Why Standard Treatments Sometimes Fail
Treatments aimed only at joints, muscles, or discs may fall short when central sensitization is present. Without addressing nervous system involvement, pain may persist despite:
- Normal imaging
- Multiple procedures
- Long-term medication use
A targeted pain management approach is essential.
Why Choose Kansas Pain Management?
At Kansas Pain Management, we take a whole-person approach to chronic pain. Our team focuses on:
- Identifying pain generators
- Addressing nervous system sensitization
- Creating personalized, non-surgical treatment plans
Our goal is to help patients move forward—not just chase symptoms.
When Should You See a Pain Specialist?
You should consider seeing a pain management specialist if:
- Pain continues despite normal tests
- Pain spreads or worsens over time
- Treatments that once helped no longer work
- Pain affects sleep, mood, or daily function
Early intervention can prevent pain from becoming more entrenched.
Schedule a Consultation
If your pain feels out of proportion to injury or imaging results, central sensitization may be the missing piece. Contact Kansas Pain Management today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and explore personalized treatment options.
