Pain referral area is reduced by remote pain

Background Endogenous pain inhibitory mechanisms are known to reduce intensity, but whether they influence the size and distribution of referral is unclear. This study aimed determine if referred reduced by applying a remote, conditioning painful stimulus. Methods Twenty-four healthy men participated in this randomized, crossover with control session. Referred was induced from infraspinatus muscle (dominant side) pressure for 60 s. When pressure, intensity adjusted local 7/10 on numerical rating scale. In session, tonic simultaneously applied non-dominant leg during induction pain. The area drawn onto digital body chart extracted data analysis. Results For total group subgroup distinct patterns (n = 15/24), perceived back front+back smaller compared (p < 0.05). No significant difference found between sessions only demonstrating 9/24). Conclusions Engaging descending noxious areas predominately when present. Assuming effect acting dorsal horn neurons, these findings may indicate that underlying can be modulated endogenous control. useful proxy evaluate sensitivity central as previously suggested. Significance current results link inhibition referral. Descending effects support spinal mechanism involved Future studies should investigate spatial characteristics (e.g. size, frequency affected regions away primary nociceptive stimulus) efficiency modulation.