ABSTRACT

Norman Doidge in his book The Brain That Changes Itself (2007) describes chronic pain as a negative consequence of neuroplasticity or neuroplasticity gone wrong. Using their clinical experiences, the authors explore the issues involving chronic pain and its relevance to neuroplasticity. Changes in the peripheral and central nervous systems are examined through the use of surface electromyography (SEMG), quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) and stress profiling techniques. The use of these techniques is combined with relevant research literature to produce a working model of the complex phenomena known as neuroplasticity. A case study concludes the presentation.