You sometimes might wonder whether your mind fabricates intense pain, especially if you struggle with chronic pain and other long-lasting conditions. The answer is yes – and no. Your central nervous system pain actually alerts you to perceived pain, and some conditions can overstimulate this detection mechanism, leading to Central Sensitization Syndrome.
Since Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. has experience in treating central sensitization syndrome in NYC, we share some of our insights below.
What Is Central Sensitization?
CSS is a mysterious issue that can have varying consequences and symptoms.
What is central sensitization, exactly? It occurs when your central nervous system works overtime or stays alert. That heightened activity level can cause chronic pain and other debilitating symptoms that keep you from living your life to the fullest.
What Causes This Syndrome?
CSS isn’t a diagnosis in and of itself. Rather, it’s more of a consequence when you have a prolonged state of illness or stress caused by identifiable health conditions. For example, chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis can trigger CSS symptoms.
One study inventoried the symptoms or diagnoses that frequently accompany CSS, including:
- Pain, sensitization, or reactivity to stimuli
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
- Chronic fatigue
- Irritable bowels
If you struggle with one or multiple chronic health conditions, you might develop CSS. One population-based study highlighted that women are twice as likely to suffer from CSS as men. Other risk factors accompany the Central Sensitization symptoms.
How Can an NYC Neurologist Treat Central Sensitization Syndrome?
Before you take the path to recovery, an NYC neurologist should diagnose the reason for your CSS symptoms. To do so, they may analyze samples of bodily fluids, use CT scans or MRIs to search for aberrations, or work with previous diagnoses to build your health profile. Identifying the source of central sensitization syndrome or connected health concerns would be the first step toward healing and the condition’s management.
A 2022 analysis explored how whole-body cryostimulation would affect CSS in 41 patients. These patients generally experienced significant improvements from WBC combined with exercise. Other treatment options that may curb CSS’s sustained effects include:
- Physical therapy
- Stress and sleep management
- Targeted or guided exercise regimens
- Anxiety management
- Prescription medications or supplements
What Can You Do to Enhance Your Treatment Results?
After consulting our neurologists in New York City, you might wonder whether you have any power over the pain intensity. Can you enhance your treatment routine? Yes, you can combat your CSS struggles with these recommendations:
- Don’t stress. While easier said than done, it’s important not to let lingering negative thoughts or emotions impact your body’s pain perception mechanisms.
- Eat and sleep well. Follow recommended dietary changes and incorporate anti-inflammatory foods. A sleep aid from your doctor may help.
- Use exercise as a channel for anxiety and stress. You don’t have to be a marathon runner or bodybuilder to reap the benefits of consistent exercise. When you feel “wound up,” try movement routines or find stretches that don’t exacerbate your pain.
- Continue managing any previous diagnoses alongside your provider. Since pre-existing conditions correlate with CSS, proper condition management is essential. Take or adjust your medications and treatments only as your doctor recommends.
Work With Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. To Build a Treatment Plan With a Neurologist in NYC
Central sensitization syndrome develops when the central nervous system stays activated instead of calming down. The root of the problem might be something like chronic stress, so accurate diagnoses are important.
Whether you want to book an appointment to discuss CSS management or you’re exploring things like cognitive rehabilitation for memory boost, Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. can help. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
CSS is quite a mystery. Below, our neurologist in NYC partially demystifies this syndrome by responding to some common queries.
How Are Fibromyalgia and CSS Different?
Fibromyalgia and CSS are different. CSS describes a broader category of symptoms or related conditions. Fibromyalgia may fall under the CSS umbrella but is a unique condition.
Is CSS a Disability?
Yes, CSS would be a disability if it negatively impacted your daily life in substantial ways. You may have a more specific diagnosis of the cause of your CSS to qualify it as a disability.
Is CSS a Mental Illness?
No, CSS is not a mental illness. However, an Anesthesiology article has acknowledged the correlation between CSS and worsening mental health for various reasons.
Is Central Sensitization Syndrome an Autoimmune Disease?
No, central sensitization syndrome is not an autoimmune disease but may have comorbidity with conditions that affect your immune system.
