Could genes play a role in chronic pain? I’m sure you’ve asked yourself this from time to time and have wondered why some people have a higher tolerance for pain than others. More importantly, why do you have to suffer from these torturous symptoms?
We understand your frustration, and according to a recent study published in Medical News Today, there could be an answer to this question. Researchers at Proove Biosciences have identified genetic similarities among patients with similar pain intensities. Meaning, the research team found gene variants that played a significant role in various levels of pain.
The future of pain management could change drastically if treatment options are produced as a result of this finding. The specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are following this development closely to better understand patient pain perception and whether or not new therapies will be developed for chronic pain sufferers.
The study involved more than 2,700 patients who take prescription pain medication for their chronic pain symptoms. The participants were assessed and put into separate groups based on their pain perceptions. Researchers evaluated the genes COMT, DRD2, DRD1 and OPRK1 to figure out which variant produced the highest (and lowest) pain perception in patients.
The results can be seen below*:
- DRD1 was 33 percent more prevalent in the low-pain group than in the high-pain group.
- COMT was 25 percent more common in those with moderate pain than those with high pain perception.
- OPRK was 19 percent more prevalent in those with moderate pain than those with high pain perception.
- DRD2 was 25 percent more common among those with a high pain perception than those with moderate pain.
Study author Dr. Tobore Onojjighofia stated in a press release earlier this year that this study provides “an objective way to understand pain and why different individuals have different pain tolerance levels.”
The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center could not agree more. This recent finding could change the way chronic pain is treated by physicians across the globe.
Regardless, until this happens, there are significant pain-relieving therapies available at The Southwest Spine and Pain Center for those living with chronic pain. Call to schedule an appointment at one of our four convenient locations today!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With four 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
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*Source: http://consumer.healthday.com/health-technology-information-18/genetics-...