Central Sensitization as a Risk Factor in Work-related Musculoskeletal Pain – New Aspects of Functional Disorders

When analyzing work-related complaints, it is important to consider not only external and psychosocial factors but also conditions that have their origin in neurological processes, which lead to sensitization. This results in a lowering of receptor thresholds, leading to increased sensitivity to often inadequate stimuli. This hypersensitivity manifests not only as pain but also in the form of various discomforts. The basis of many workplace problems may therefore not be isolated causes, but rather an underlying sensitization process as an expression of dysfunctional regulatory feedback loops. This underlying background should be considered before initiating therapy. Otherwise, there is a significant risk of misguided treatment, which often leads to the chronification of the condition.