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Understanding Pain: Peripheral vs Central Sensitization
- Yannick Sarton
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 28
Introduction
Pain is often misunderstood as a direct reflection of tissue damage. In reality, pain is an adaptive response produced by the nervous system. When symptoms persist or fluctuate without clear mechanical patterns, sensitization mechanisms may be involved. Understanding the difference between peripheral and central sensitization helps patients interpret their symptoms and guides physiotherapists toward more effective treatments, both in clinic and through online consultations.
Peripheral Sensitization: The Tissues Become More Reactive
Peripheral sensitization occurs when the nociceptors in the tissues become more sensitive following inflammation, overload or micro-injury. This stage is common after acute incidents such as sprains, muscle strains or irritated joints.
Typical features include:
• pain sharper than expected
• increased sensitivity to touch or movement
• swelling or local warmth
• symptoms that improve progressively with rest and graded loading
This mechanism is normal and expected during tissue healing. It decreases as tissues recover and load tolerance returns.
Central Sensitization: The Nervous System Amplifies the Signals
When pain persists beyond normal healing timelines or becomes disproportionate to mechanical load, central sensitization may play a role. The spinal cord and brain increase the responsiveness of neural circuits, making ordinary movements feel threatening.
Common indicators include:
• widespread or migrating pain
• symptoms triggered by stress, fatigue or poor sleep
• discomfort during simple tasks not normally painful
• unpredictable flare-ups
• heightened emotional responses due to uncertainty
This mechanism does not imply damage. It reflects a protective nervous system that has become over-sensitive.
The Interaction Between Both Mechanisms
Peripheral and central sensitization often coexist. A tissue injury can create the initial nociceptive input, and persistent inflammation or fear-avoidance behaviours may maintain sensitivity. Conversely, the nervous system can stay reactive even after tissues have healed, which explains why some patients experience ongoing pain despite normal imaging.
How Physiotherapy Addresses Sensitization
Physiotherapy uses evidence-based strategies to reduce sensitivity at both peripheral and central levels. Effective interventions include:
• graded exposure to movement and load
• targeted strengthening to rebuild tissue tolerance
• mobility work to restore confidence
• education to correct misconceptions about pain
• pacing strategies to reduce flare-ups
• functional retraining linked to daily habits
This comprehensive approach recalibrates the nervous system and improves movement predictability.
The Role of Online Physiotherapy Across Asia
Studio On provides Online Physiotherapy designed for patients who need clear explanations and structured recovery plans. Through video assessment, we analyse movement patterns, sensitivity behaviours, and functional limitations. Online guidance offers personalised exercises, reassurance, and progressive loading tailored to each individual. This format is ideal for travellers, expatriates and patients seeking specialist pain management support across Asia.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between peripheral and central sensitization transforms the way patients interpret pain. It reduces fear, improves self-efficacy and supports effective recovery strategies. Physiotherapy builds resilience through progressive movement, education and functional retraining, both in person and through Online Physiotherapy provided by Studio On.
Whether you are in Phnom Penh or abroad, you can book your next in-clinic or online physiotherapy session today.I’m available worldwide for online consultations — simple, fast, and evidence-based.
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References:
Volcheck MM, Graham SM, Fleming KC, Mohabbat AB, Luedtke CA. Central sensitization, chronic pain, and other symptoms: Better understanding, better management. Cleve Clin J Med. 2023 Apr 3;90(4):245-254. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.90a.22019. PMID: 37011956.
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