The Open Spine Journal

2013, 5 : 12-18
Published online 2013 September 30. DOI: 10.2174/1876532720130816004
Publisher ID: TOSPINEJ-5-12

Biochemistry of Back Pain

Erin L Kaufman and Allen Carl
University of Kentucky, College of Public Health, 121 Washington Ave, Lexington, KY 40506.

ABSTRACT

Biochemistry of Spinal Pain

Background Context:

Cytokines and neuropeptides are involved in the nervous system response and their role in pain is only beginning to be understood and incorporated into routine care. We present here a review on several cytokines and neuropeptides that might be implicated in spinal pain as well as the future directions of this field of research.

Purpose:

A review on the biochemistry of spinal pain.

Study Design:

A literature review

Methods:

A literature review of pubmed using studies published in the English language and focusing on studies dealing with the cytokines and/or neuropeptides and pain. We did not restrict the years of publication. All studies were accessed through either the University of Kentucky, Albany Medical College or Emory University's system.

Conclusions:

Cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-10 may play a role in the biochemistry of spinal pain.

Keywords:

Cytokines, back pain, pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, spinal pain, review..