Overview

MODULE LEARNING OUTCOMES/OBJECTIVES

The student should be able to:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the physiological processes involved in acute and chronic pain

• Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the neural pathways of nociception as well as the processes of central and peripheral sensitisation

• Understanding the impact of the physiological changes induced by injury and pain to the patient’s symptoms and their presentation

• Understand the basic principles of endogenous pain modulation and the physiology of these systems

• Understand the role of major neurotransmitters in nociception and pain

MODULE SESSION DATES

22 - 24 March 2022

Deadline for applications is 2 weeks prior to module start date.  Applying before this is recommended as spaces are awarded on a first come first served basis (assuming conditions of offers are met). 

Module aims

• To develop knowledge of the peripheral and central pathways of pain

• To demonstrate understanding of the physiological processes involved in peripheral and central sensitisation

• To understand the endogenous pathways of pain modulation

• To understand the pharmacology of main neurotransmitters and pharmaceuticals involved in pain modulation and their physiological actions

• To demonstrate an understanding of the physiological differences between the various types of clinical pain syndromes

Entry requirements

The course is aimed primarily at those with a practical and/or theoretical interest in physiology and pharmacology relating to pain science and the management of pain.

Candidates should normally have a first or second-class honours degree in a relevant professional or academic area.

Module content

• Anatomy and physiology of acute and chronic pain.

• Review of neurophysiological processes involved in the processing of pain and its modulation by the central nervous system.

• Biology of major neurotransmitters and receptors involved in nociception.

• Development of chronic pain.

• Physiology of various pain modulation systems.

• Explorations of clinical pain syndromes and their particular characteristics.

• Understanding of the processes involved in nociception and chronic pain.

Teaching and assessment

TEACHING FORMAT

Block sessions:  Lecturers, seminars, discussion sessions and tutorials

ASSESSMENT TYPE

4,000 word essay