Neural Plasticity
Volume 2016 (2016), Article ID 3704964, 9 pages
http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2016/3704964
“The prefrontal cortex is known to be a key structure responsible for the performance of what is known as “executive functions”. Executive function is the mechanism by which the brain integrates and coordinates the operations of multiple neural systems to solve problems and achieve goals based on the ever-changing environment around us. Executive function is considered to be a product of the coordinated operation of various neural systems and is essential for achieving any particular goal. The prefrontal cortex is believed to be the main brain structure responsible for enabling this coordination and control.”
“The change in prefrontal cortex as seen in this study therefore suggests that the altered input from dysfunctional joints that leads to altered processing of somatosensory inputs can influence processing of somatosensory information by the prefrontal cortex.”
“Hence, the mechanisms behind pain relief following spinal manipulation in low level pain patients are likely due to improved SMI and appropriate motor control, as this is the key function of the prefrontal cortex.”
It seems like a dysfunctional spinal joint would be quite painful. Could a therapy on visceral manipulation be helpful to have? This same thing is what my wife has been having difficulty with at the moment.
Hi, thanks for commenting.
A dysfunctional spinal joint possibly can be quite painful, but not necessarily. Pain is an output from the brain in response to a nociceptive “Danger” message that it is receiving from the periphery. May people have dysfunctional facet joints and have no idea as they are asymptomatic. The NS has a certain level of tolerance, once that tolerance has been met, it becomes hypersensitive and you feel discomfort, pain etc… Treatment for dysfunction and pain must include not just the biological aspect (manual therapy for example) but also the psychosocial aspect also. This is a huge topic beyond this response,so I would suggest looking into “Explain Pain” and searching out an educated clinician to help your wife. We all hate that she is in pain. It’s why we entered into this profession, so we could help.
Thanks again for taking the time to comment. I greatly appreciate it!