Dr. Jordan Sudberg on Chronic Pain: A Result of Disarrayed Electric Signals in the Body
Chronic pain is an affliction that many people suffer from daily, often in silence. It affects millions of individuals worldwide, and despite extensive treatments, many find themselves stuck in an ongoing cycle of discomfort. But why does this happen? According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a leading pain management specialist, chronic pain can often be traced back to a disturbance in the body’s electrical system—a malfunction that causes the nervous system to send disarrayed signals of pain.
In this article, we’ll explore how chronic pain is essentially a disruption in the body’s natural electrical pathways, how this condition develops, and what can be done to manage it. Dr. Sudberg’s insights offer valuable understanding for those seeking to find relief from this complicated condition.
The Body’s Electrical System and Chronic Pain
The human body is a finely tuned machine, and its nervous system functions much like an electrical circuit. Neurons (nerve cells) transmit electrical signals throughout the body, facilitating communication between the brain, spinal cord, and different organs. Pain, in its most basic form, is simply a signal sent from the body to the brain, alerting us to potential injury or damage.
In healthy conditions, these pain signals are temporary and subside once the body has healed. For instance, if you cut your finger, the nerves in the affected area send a pain signal to the brain, and once the injury heals, the pain stops. However, in individuals with chronic pain, something goes awry. Dr. Jordan Sudberg explains that, instead of ceasing when the body heals, the pain signals keep firing. The nervous system continues to send messages of pain, even in the absence of any new injury.
“Chronic pain results when the nervous system goes haywire. Instead of sending accurate and necessary signals, it sends signals of pain without cause,” says Dr. Sudberg. “Essentially, the brain gets stuck in a feedback loop, amplifying pain even when there’s no injury or damage to justify it.”
What is Central Sensitization?
Central sensitization is one of the key mechanisms behind chronic pain. This phenomenon occurs when the central nervous system—the brain and spinal cord—becomes hypersensitive over time due to repeated pain signals. The brain starts to interpret normal, non-harmful sensations as painful stimuli, creating a heightened perception of pain.
In other words, the nervous system becomes overactive and misinterprets harmless stimuli (such as light touch, movement, or even temperature changes) as painful. Dr. Sudberg explains that this process contributes to many chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, back pain, and even conditions like migraines.
“When the brain is constantly bombarded with pain signals, it rewires itself to become more sensitive to them,” explains Dr. Sudberg. “As a result, even small triggers can lead to significant pain.”
The Role of Neuroplasticity in Chronic Pain
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. While neuroplasticity is usually thought of as a beneficial process—helping the brain adapt and recover from injury—it can also contribute to chronic pain if the brain’s wiring becomes maladaptive.
In the case of chronic pain, the brain can become “stuck” in a pattern of amplifying pain signals, even in the absence of injury. Over time, this rewiring can create a cycle of pain that feels inescapable.
“Neuroplasticity is both a gift and a curse,” Dr. Sudberg says. “While it allows the brain to adapt to injury or loss, it also means the brain can reinforce pain signals, leading to long-term chronic pain.”
This explains why people suffering from chronic pain often experience a pain memory that becomes ingrained in the nervous system, making it harder for the brain to “reset” and stop the pain feedback loop.
What Can Be Done to Manage Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain may seem like an overwhelming and insurmountable condition, but there are several ways to manage and reduce its impact on daily life. Dr. Sudberg emphasizes a multifaceted approach to pain management, including the following:
- Medications: Pain-relief medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or painkillers, can be used to manage symptoms. However, medications should be carefully managed, as long-term use can lead to dependence.
- Physical Therapy: For many chronic pain sufferers, physical therapy can help address the underlying issues contributing to pain. Stretching, strengthening, and other physical exercises can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals cope with the mental and emotional challenges of chronic pain. It can teach patients how to manage their pain response and improve quality of life.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can reduce the body’s overall stress levels, which may help mitigate pain intensity.
- Neuromodulation: For patients suffering from particularly persistent chronic pain, neuromodulation therapies, such as spinal cord stimulation, may be considered. These therapies involve implanting devices that disrupt the abnormal electrical signals that cause pain.
Final Thoughts
Chronic pain is a complicated condition rooted in the nervous system’s malfunctioning electrical signals. As Dr. Jordan Sudberg explains, it’s not just a matter of experiencing pain—it’s the brain’s faulty wiring and its tendency to amplify pain signals in a loop, even when there is no underlying injury.
However, with the right treatment plan and support, chronic pain can be managed. The key is understanding the neurological mechanisms at play and using a combination of therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of pain. With time, care, and the right approach, it’s possible for chronic pain sufferers to regain control and improve their quality of life.
If you’re struggling with chronic pain, consulting a pain management specialist like Dr. Sudberg can help you build a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs, bringing you closer to relief.
