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System for Focal, Closed-System Central Nervous System Injury

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Central sensitization as a component of post-deployment syndrome.

Jeffrey D Lewis¹, Eric M Wassermann, Wendy Chao

¹National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Behavioral Neurology Unit, Bethesda, MD, USA.

Neurorehabilitation

|December 13, 2012

Summary

Post-deployment syndrome (PDS) in service members and veterans involves chronic pain and fatigue, potentially linked to central sensitization. Neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system may underlie these widespread pain symptoms.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Military Health
Pain Medicine

Background:

Service members and veterans frequently report unexplained chronic symptoms like pain, fatigue, and memory issues, collectively termed post-deployment syndrome (PDS).
Chronic widespread pain is a significant component of PDS, leading to substantial disability and healthcare expenditures.
Similarities exist between PDS symptoms and other medically unexplained illnesses, suggesting shared underlying mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the potential role of central sensitization in the development of post-deployment syndrome.
To explore the link between neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system and chronic widespread pain in veterans and service members.
To discuss the influence of stress and genetic factors on PDS-related chronic pain.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on post-deployment syndrome, central sensitization, and related conditions.
Analysis of potential neurobiological mechanisms underlying chronic pain in the military population.
Discussion of contributing factors such as stress and genetics.

Main Results:

Evidence suggests that PDS may arise from pain and sensory amplification due to central sensitization.
Central sensitization involves neuroplastic changes within the central nervous system, altering pain processing.
Stress and genetic predispositions may increase vulnerability to developing chronic widespread pain in PDS.

Conclusions:

Post-deployment syndrome is likely associated with central sensitization, a phenomenon of amplified pain signaling.
Neuroplasticity within the central nervous system plays a crucial role in the chronic pain experienced by affected service members and veterans.
Understanding these mechanisms is vital for developing targeted treatments for PDS and improving veteran healthcare outcomes.