The Brain Adapting with Pain. Contribution of Neuroimaging Technology to Pain Mechanisms [Apkarian - LIPPINCOTT Williams and Wilkins]

Ideal for anyone with an interest in the role of brain imaging in understanding pain perception and pain mechanisms, this unique, full-color resource thoroughly covers technical advances in the field as well as potential new applications. Dozens of worldwide experts first demystify the technological concepts that are crucial for proper understanding and interpretation of neuroimaging findings, then explore new advances in understanding brain mechanisms of pain, in human as well as animal models. Sections cover the historical perspective, technology, animal pain neuroimaging, acute pain, neuroplasticity of chronic pain, chronic pain, and pain modulation. The Brain Adapting with Pain: Contribution of Neuroimaging Technology to Pain Mechanisms highlights strengths and weaknesses of specific techniques, and includes divergent views regarding outcomes and implications. For each section, Dr. Apkarian provides a short commentary covering significant advances and unanswered questions. The authors ensure that both the experienced neuroradiologist and the general clinician will find the information they need to understand the current state of the field as well as potential future directions regarding the interaction between the brain and pain – for both acute and various chronic pain conditions, from a functional/physiological, structural/anatomical perspective, and also concerning tools with which new therapies should be developed for properly treating and/or preventing pain states.