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Research

Research performed by the Pain Research Institute focuses on chronic pain and conditions associated with chronic pain. Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for more than 12 weeks.

Examples of chronic pain and associated conditions include fibromyalgia syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.

In the UK, roughly 34% of adults report some form of chronic pain. Chronic pain is more common in women (38%) than men (30%), and its prevalence increases with age, ranging from 16% among young people aged 16-24 to 53% amongst those aged 75 years and over. 

Management of chronic pain often requires multiple treatment strategies, as it is often accompanied by other conditions such as depression and irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment options may include medication (painkillers and/or antidepressants), therapy (physical and psychological), and non-pharmaceutical pain relief (e.g. transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices). However, these options only manage the symptoms of chronic pain, rather than address the root cause. 

Our research spans multiple fields within pain medicine, in order to determine and therefore treat the underlying causes of chronic pain.

  • We focus on the contribution of immunoglobulin G autoantibodies in the causes of chronic pain.

  • We use MRI to explore maladaptive changes in the central nervous system caused by chronic pain.

  • We conduct investigator-led and industry-sponsored trials to assess analgesic drugs and interventions.

  • PMPs help to support quality of life for those living with chronic pain.

  • We launched a research programme focused on transcranial magnetic stimulation.

  • A selection of recent publications from the Pain Research Institute team.