Understanding Sensory Processing in Pain

One of the projects closest to my heart right now is my latest paper, published in Frontiers in Pain Research: “Sensory Processing in Medically Unexplained Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review.”

That title is a mouthful—so let’s break it down simply.

Many people live with chronic pain that doesn’t fit neatly into a medical diagnosis. This can be frustrating for patients, as standard scans or tests may not explain why they’re in pain. My research looks at how the brain and nervous system process sensory information—things like touch, sound, and movement—and how this might be different in people with ongoing, unexplained pain.

The review found that differences in sensory processing could play a key role in how pain is felt and managed. In other words, it’s not “all in someone’s head”—there are real, measurable changes happening in the nervous system. Understanding this better could open the door to new treatments and more compassionate care.

At Coelevate, this research directly shapes how we support our patients. By looking at the whole person—not just their symptoms—we can help uncover new pathways to relief and recovery.

How Early Trauma Shapes the Brain and Chronic Pain

Early experiences don’t just live in our memories—they shape how our brains respond to the world, including how we feel pain. Research shows that childhood trauma, such as abuse or neglect, can alter the brain’s wiring in ways that make it more sensitive to pain later in life. These changes can differ between males and females, influencing both emotional processing and susceptibility to chronic pain conditions.

By understanding how early adversity affects the brain’s connectome, researchers like Dr. Nicole Quodling are paving the way for more personalised, effective treatments for chronic pain—treatments that consider both our biology and our life experiences.

If you’re living with chronic pain, nociplastic pain might be what’s affecting you. Unlike pain from tissue or nerve damage, nociplastic pain comes from changes in how your nervous system processes pain—making your brain and spinal cord overly sensitive. This “malfunctioning alarm system” can cause widespread pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and mood changes, even when there’s no clear physical cause.

Understanding nociplastic pain is the first step toward managing it. With approaches like education, exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and physical therapy, it’s possible to reduce pain perception and improve quality of life. Knowledge is power—knowing your pain is real, and treatable, helps you take back control.