Pain in Motion Brain research line of Pain in Motion research group at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Chairperson Prof. Dr. Iris Coppieters

Publications

Vision of the research line

The vision of the Pain in Motion Brain research line is to increase insight in underlying neurobiological mechanisms of chronic pain and their relationship with pain, stress, and sleep problems. With these new mechanistic brain-body research insights, we aim to develop effective and novel treatments for chronic pain that target the involved mechanisms to improve quality of life for those affected.

Short description of the research line

"The Pain in Motion Brain research line examines neurobiological mechanisms underlying chronic pain and relationships with pain sensitivity, stress, and sleep by integrating diverse methodologies including (functional) MRI, (neuro)inflammation measurements, EEG, quantitative sensory testing, and sleep- and stress assessments and combines various disciplines (i.e., rehabilitation sciences, psychology, and neurosciences). We aim to unravel the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the bidirectional sleep-pain and stress-pain relationships, and the role of structural and functional brain alterations in chronic pain and the transition from acute to chronic pain. The overarching aim is to develop more effective treatments for chronic pain targeting the involved mechanisms. "