The neurophysiologic mechanisms of pain

This work presents some data showing the development of a research field considering the relationship between the cerebral electrical activity and the perception of algesic stimulation. Data obtained in humans and other species suggest a suppressive and selective mechanism for the unpleasant characteristics of pain perception, preserving the identification and localization properties of pain. A description of habituation to pain in humans and a thalamo cortical mechanism which suppresses the responses to noxious stimulation is made, In this way, a possible new alternative therapeutic approach for chronic pain is proposed.