CNS mechanisms of pain and analgesia

Abstract

This paper reviews briefly the spinal and supraspinal elements by which high threshold stimuli gain access to various levels of the neuraxis. Emphasis is also placed on the fact that transmission through each link is subject to an ongoing modulation. Several probable levels of modulation are discussed. The pharmacology of systems which may modulate the encoding process, such as opioids and monoamines, are also considered.