Illustration of brain regions activated by chronic back pain

Study reveals chronic back pain's link to brain's self-awareness network

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Researchers at UC San Diego have discovered that chronic lower back pain activates a brain network related to self-awareness and memories, unlike acute pain which usually deactivates this network. This finding may explain why chronic pain feels deeply personal and why traditional pain medications often fail to provide sufficient relief. The study also highlights how psychological factors like fear and anticipation can intensify chronic pain.

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Originally published by gnews