Ep. 141 What are the childhood brain signatures that predict chronic pain before it develops?

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Important insights from research are illuminating secrets of Chronic Pain in Children. This episode looks at research into the complexities of chronic pain among children. Dr. Lenz discusses the growing understanding that chronic pain often arises from how the central nervous system interprets sensory inputs. The episode highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of chronic pain in altering its lifelong course. Also, it emphasizes that neuroimaging studies have found specific correlations in the brain with chronic pain, but more research is needed. 00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain in Young People 01:00 Meet Your Host, Dr. Michael Lenz 01:44 The Struggles of Chronic Pain Patients 02:55 The Prevalence of Chronic Pain in Children 03:22 The Role of Pediatricians in Chronic Pain Management 03:51 Understanding Nociplastic Pain 05:10 The Importance of Early Identification and Treatment 05:56 The Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development Study 09:58 The Role of Genetics in Chronic Pain 12:40 The Future of Chronic Pain Treatment 13:18 Understanding the Risk Factors for Chronic Pain 13:46 Is there a Role of Functional MRI in Chronic Pain Diagnosis 19:09 The Impact of Sex Differences on Chronic Pain 20:39 Conclusion: The Future of Chronic Pain Research 22:15 Final Thoughts Click here for the YouTube Channel Click here for the YouTube channel Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...