Biochemistry of Back Pain

Biochemistry of Spinal Pain Background Context: Cytokines and neuropeptides are involved in the nervous system response and their role in pain is only beginning to be understood and incorporated into routine care. We present here a review on several cytokines and neuropeptides that might be implicated in spinal pain as well as the future directions of this field of research. Purpose: A review on the biochemistry of spinal pain. Study Design: A literature review. Methods: A literature review of pubmed using studies published in the English language and focusing on studies dealing with the cytokines and/or neuropeptides and pain. We did not restrict the years of publication. All studies were accessed through either the University of Kentucky, Albany Medical College or Emory University’s system. Conclusions: Cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-10 may play a role in the biochemistry of spinal