Can a detailed map of pain nerves unlock new chronic pain treatments?

This study aims to create a detailed map of the sensory nerves that transmit pain signals in humans, to better understand why chronic pain develops. Researchers will use a technique called microneurography, which involves inserting a fine electrode into a nerve to record the activity of individual nerve fibers. This will be done in both healthy volunteers and people with chronic pain, and the results will be combined with lab studies to link nerve activity to molecular characteristics. The goal is to identify specific nerve types involved in chronic pain, which could guide the development of more effective, personalized treatments in the future.