Abstract
Background: Pain threshold evaluation in compressive neuropathy is very useful for explainig generalized symptoms. About peripheral sensitization process in the release of bradykinin and prostaglandin alters specific TRPV1 receptors leading to reduction of nerve fiber firing threshold. This repetition leads to a brain receptive field expansion with consequent central sensitization.
Methods: We have evaluated 160 female subdivided according to the neurophysiologic impairment of median nerve. Pressure algometry as well as discriminatory sensitivity between two points and The Boston Questionnaire were applied.
Results: The comparison of algometry data showed extremely significant differences between control group and another groups. Therefore, pain thresholds showed direct relation to mononeuropathy severity to a certain point. When sensory or motor potential were no longer obtained, painful thresholds returned close to normal values. We suggest this result could be due to small fibers destruction, when hyperalgesia would be replaced by hypoesthesia.
Conclusion: Pain threshold is lower in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, either the median nerve innervated area or another areas.