Referred pain: characteristics, possible mechanisms, and clinical management

Referred pain is a common but less understood symptom that originates from somatic tissues. A comprehensive recognition of referred pain is important for clinicians when dealing with it. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current understanding of referred pain, including its pathogenesis, characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment.

Referred pain arises not only from pathologies primarily involving local tissue but also from lesions in distant structures. Central sensitization of convergent neurons and peripheral reflexes of dichotomizing afferent fibers are two theories proposed to explain the pathological mechanism of referred pain. Because syndromes related to referred pain of different origins overlap each other, it is challenging to define referred pain and identify its originating lesions. Although various approaches have been used in the diagnosis and treatment of referred pain, including conservative treatment, blockade, radiofrequency, and surgery, management of referred pain remains a clinical challenge.

Unlike radicular pain and neuropathic pain, referred pain is a less studied area, despite being common in clinics. Referred pain can derive from various spinal structures, and blockage helps identify the primary pathology. Due to the heterogeneity of referred pain, treatment outcomes remain uncertain. Further studies are needed to improve our understanding of referred pain.