Scientific Knowledge Graph and Trend Analysis of Central Sensitization: A Bibliometric Analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pain Research
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Central sensitization is a hypersensitive state of the central nervous system linked to chronic pain development.
• It plays a crucial role in various diseases, yet lacks prior bibliometric analysis.
• Understanding its research landscape is vital for advancing basic and clinical studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform the first bibliometric analysis of central sensitization research.
• To identify critical themes, trends, and knowledge networks.
• To guide future research directions in this field.

Main Methods:

• Extracted 4466 publications from Science Citation Index-Expanded.
• Utilized R software for systematic analysis of countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords.
• Constructed conceptual, intellectual, and social structure networks.

Main Results:

• Research shows a steady upward trend, with the United States as the leading country.
• Arendt-Nielsen L and Woolf CJ identified as most productive and influential authors, respectively.
• Key research clusters focus on neuropathic pain pathogenesis, disease roles, and clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• Central sensitization research has garnered significant global attention, led by the United States.
• Positive international cooperation and communication observed in the field.
• Current hotspots include neuropathic pain pathogenesis, disease implications, and clinical trials.