Chronic pain is the third largest cause of illness related disability for New Zealanders. The prevalence of chronic pain makes it a major health issue and a critical public health problem internationally in terms of disability adjusted life years. Chronic pain creates a health care cost burden, loss of productivity in the workplace, and has a significant impact on daily wellbeing.
Our research aims to address the mechanisms behind the management of chronic pain using four sub-themes.
Understanding mechanisms of pain
Research areas
Central and peripheral mechanisms including molecular (inflammation, genetics, genomics) and brain mechanisms (brain imaging), also targeting hormones and cannabinoid receptors.
Disciplines
- Anatomy
- Dentistry
- Pathology
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Physiotherapy
- Surgical Sciences
Predictors of pain chronicity
Research areas
Psychosocial factors, cultural aspects, and pain behaviour. Brain adaptations and activity, and brain connectivity changes.
Disciplines
- Anaesthesia
- Physiotherapy
- Preventive and Social Medicine
- Psychology
- Surgical Sciences
- Psychological Medicine
Management of pain
Research areas
Physiotherapy, psychological aspects, lifestyle, and anaesthesia. Pharmacological, and surgical approaches.
Disciplines
- Anaesthesia
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Psychological Medicine
- Surgical Sciences
- Women’s and Children’s Health
Pain education and curriculum
Research areas
Pain competencies for health professionals, awareness about pain among patients and our general population. Pain curriculum and health professional programmes.
Disciplines
- Anaesthesia
- General Practice
- Physiotherapy
- Population Health
- Psychology
- Psychological Medicine
