The Affective Side of Pain Targeting the Medial Pathway

Dr. Pankaj Mehta discusses the evolution of neuromodulation in pain management, emphasizing the importance of targeting the medial pain pathway, which influences the emotional and affective component of pain—suffering—not just the sensory pain intensity (lateral pathway). He highlights the limitations of relying solely on VAS scores and advocates for a more holistic approach using psychometric assessments and advanced therapies like BurstDR stimulation. By activating the medial pathway, physicians can better treat chronic pain patients who present with complex, longstanding suffering. Real-world and clinical evidence support BurstDR’s ability to address both pain and suffering, improving outcomes in diverse patient populations.