According to researchers from King’s College London, their study reveals that a person’s lifestyle and environment could alter pain sensitivity. What was once thought to be relatively uncompromising, researchers implemented a process called epigenetics, chemically altering the expression of genes.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we provide the right tools and tips for patients to make adjustments in their lives to better manage pain. As the leading pain management clinic in the southwest United States, Southwest Spine and Pain Center is obligated to assist ailing patients in every way possible.
The scientists of the study began their research on twins. Identical twins share 100 percent of their genes, which leads to the understanding that any variances would be due to environmental or epigenetic changes affecting gene function. Scientists ran tests on 25 pairs of identical twins, each fixed with a heat probe on his or her arm. Tthe participants were then asked to press a button when the omitted heat became painful. This allowed the researchers to identify their unique pain thresholds.
Nine genes were identified as being part of differences in chemical modifications and pain sensitivity. TRPA1, one of the body’s pain sensitivity genes, was the most significant gene to pain sensitivity levels. Currently, TRPA1 is under thorough investigation as a potential for therapeutic purposes in pain management.
Based on the information and data collected in the study, researchers believe that people who are more sensitive in pain are more likely to develop chronic pain. For more information on the study, and the developments of TRPA1, please visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/newsevents/news/newsrecords/2014/February/Pain-sensitivity-may-be-influenced-by-lifestyle-and-environment.aspx.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014
©Medical Marketing Solutions, 2014