Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS) treatment approach: Function is the key!

We explored CSS in a previous post. Let's take a deeper look at its impact.

People with chronic pain and other chronic symptoms may have a central nervous system that has become sensitized over time.  Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS) can be described as a louder message from the body to a more sensitive receiver in the brain. When you have sensitization, your body overreacts to sensory signals as if they are dangerous. This can result in worsening of symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea or other movement related challenges.  The long-term consequences of this upregulated system can include:

• Physical deconditioning

• Emotional distress

• Increased reliance on medications to feel better

• Increased frequency of treatments or interventions

• Decreased functioning

• Decreased quality of life

What is the best approach to address these consequences?

Unfortunately, there is no way to turn back the clock and “un-sensitize” your nervous system. Patients are often left feeling frustrated by the lack of effective treatments.

In the Mayo Clinic Pain Rehabilitation Center (PRC) program, patients learn lifestyle management, stress management and physical re-conditioning strategies to improve their ability to effectively engage in their daily activities.  This approach enables patients to not only improve their functioning, but in time can also lead to improvement in symptoms as well.

Some examples of functional improvement for our PRC graduates:

• Travel: local and international

• Vocation: Work, school or volunteering

• Family life and caregiving

• Leisure and recreational activities: crafts, reading, kayaking, hiking

• Community involvement and social activities

Patient outcomes also include improved mood, decreased anxiety, decreased interference from symptoms and a better perception of health.

Getting back to life is the goal and focus on function is an effective tool.

Authors: Kyle Bovee DPT, Tanya Crowder OTR/L and Elke Lacayo OTR/L