This book sheds new light on central pain, a field that is largely obscured by lack of knowledge among pain professionals at all levels, including high-end pain centers. As a matter of fact, central pain, classified as a form of neuropathic pain, remains too often a scourge for those affected due to the ignorance of pain therapists worldwide and enduring misconceptions at the academic level. By weighing up the relevant evidence, the authors aim to remedy the situation by providing clear-cut, no-nonsense, unbiased and directly applicable clinical information.

The clinically sound guidelines presented here are based on the authors' twenty years of treating patients and conducting research in the field. The book will be an invaluable guide for neurologists, neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, pain therapists as well as physiotherapists.

Preface

Part 1. Clinical Features
Introduction
Epidemiology
Clinical Features
Somatosensory Findings
Central Pruritus
Central Pain Allied Conditions
Diagnosis
Part 2. Genesis
Genesis
Part 3. Palliative Treatment
Placebo, Nocebo and Expectancy
Introduction to Palliative Treatment
Gaba Agonists
Anti-Glutamatergics
Channel Blockers
Brainstem Modulators
Gabapentinoids
Opioids and Antagonists
Cannabinoids
Sundry Molecules
Non-Invasive Cortical Stimulation
Invasive Cortical Stimulation
Deep Brain Stimulation
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Non-Invasive Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Miscellaneous Neuromodulatory Techniques
Intraspinal Drug Infusion
Mind-Body Techniques
Complementary Physical Therapies
Complementary Drug Therapy
Acupuncture and Reflexology
Palliative Therapy: Guidelines
Part 4. Curative Treatment
Curative Surgery and other Experimental Approaches.