Central Sensitization Syndrome

The central nervous system of the body helps in managing the whole body functions effectively. The central nervous system of the body contains the brain and spinal cord. It helps in receiving sensory information, processing the information and passing the motor information to the organ in response to the received information. The central nervous system manages all the things like feelings, emotions, learning etc. Any deformity in the normal functions of the nervous system leads to disease conditions. Central sensitization syndrome is one such condition which includes the nervous system. As the name “Syndrome” indicates, it is a group of illnesses which include many symptoms like fatigue, pain and many more. In this article, we are going to study Central Sensitization Syndrome in detail. Let’s start!

Central sensitization syndrome (CSS) is a condition in which the nervous system of the body is affected. Central sensitisation syndrome is the hypersensitivity to external stimuli which is not usually painful. In this condition, the nerve signals from the central nervous symptom are intensified, due to which the person feels more pain than usual. The individual in this condition becomes hypersensitive to the stimulus and feels more pain, such as the feeling of clothes against the skin. The individual feels pain even after the stimulus is removed. In this article, we are going to study causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, Ayurvedic overview, Ayurvedic treatment and diet for this condition management. Also, we study the herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda for Central sensitization syndrome.

The condition of Central sensitization syndrome is usually caused by any type of physical changes in the nervous system of the body. Following are some of the common factors which are responsible for these conditions are:

• Any injury to the brain or spinal cord
• Brain surgery
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Epilepsy
• Stroke
• Brain cancer

Apart from this, there are certain factors that may increase the risk of this condition. These may be chronic pain conditions like arthritis, any family history

Central Sensitization Syndrome is a chronic condition that causes a variety of signs. Some of the common signs of this syndrome may include:

• Pain
• Sensitivity

Central Sensitization Syndrome can be characterised by a range of symptoms that may vary from patient to patient. Some of the common symptoms are:

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Lack of concentration
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Depression
• Sensitive to odours, sound or light
• Dizziness
• Disturbed sleep
• Weakness

There is no exact diagnostic test for the diagnosis of central sensitization syndrome. Some tests can be done to rule out the other conditions associated with this condition. Some of these tests may be as follows:

• X-rays to diagnose muscle, joint or bone injuries that can cause pain.
• Blood tests to check infections that may cause pain such as in Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) to assess any brain abnormalities.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to check the specific region associated with pain.

Central sensitisation syndrome is a condition in which the person is hypersensitive to external stimuli. The affected person feels more pain than usual. According to Ayurveda, the condition of Central Sensitization Syndrome can be correlated with an imbalance of Vata Dosha. The aggravated Vata dosha leads to an increased sensitivity to stimuli and pain perception. The vitiated Vata Dosha governs the nervous system and leads to the development of Central sensitisation syndrome. Vata imbalance causes an increase in the peripheral nerve’s sensitivity that leads to the amplification of pain.

• Vegetables like spinach, cabbage, sweet potato, green beans, beetroot, broccoli etc.
• Fruits like pomegranate, peaches, papaya, apple, banana, plum etc.
• Use of cow ghee and olive oil
• Dry fruits like almonds and walnuts
• Intake of Old grains, brown rice, barley etc.
• Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, fennel etc.

1. Shirodhara – The word Shiro means head and Dhara means flow or stream. In this therapy, warm medicated oil or water is continuously poured on the forehead creating a soothing sensation. This therapy helps to promote relaxation in the mind and improve sleep quality. This therapy helps balance the doshas in the body. It helps in balancing Vata dosha in central sensitization syndrome and provides calming effects to the nervous system. It reduces the volatile qualities of Vata and nourishes the mind.
2. Abhyanga – It is a form of ayurvedic therapy that involves the massage of the entire body from head to toe with medicated oil. The Vata dosha is characterised by dryness and coldness. In Abhyanga, the massage with medicated oils helps in balancing Vata dosha due to its warming and nourishing properties. Abhyanga helps to improve blood circulation and provide relief from the pain in central sensitization syndrome.
3. Nasya – Nasya is an Ayurvedic therapy that involves the instillation of herbal oils, juices and powders through the nasal route. Nasya helps balance Vata dosha and reduces pain. It helps in the management of stress, anxiety and other neurological conditions.

The condition of Central Sensitization Syndrome is correlated with the imbalance of Vata Dosha. So, the herbs that help in the Balancing of Vata dosha are used in this condition. Some of the single herbs that can be used in this condition are Turmeric, ginger, Ashwagandha, liquorice etc.