Physiology and Pharmacology of Pain
- Credits
- 15
- Contact details
- 01782 734566
- Contact email
- sahp@keele.ac.uk
- Starting months
- March
Course Overview
This module aims to increase both depth and breadth of the student's understanding and knowledge of the physiology, pharmacology, and modulation of pain,
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