Abstract
BackgroundIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder. While abdominal pain is a dominant symptom of IBS, many sufferers also report widespread hypersensitivity and present with other chronic pain conditions. The presence of widespread hypersensitivity and extra-intestinal pain conditions suggests central nervous dysfunction. While central nervous system dysfunction may involve the spinal cord (central sensitisation) and brain, this review will focus on one brain mechanism, descending pain modulation.Method/designWe will conduct a comprehensive search for the articles indexed in the databases Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid PsycINFO and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial (CENTRAL) from their inception to August 2015, that report on any aspect of descending pain modulation in irritable bowel syndrome. Two independent reviewers will screen studies for eligibility, assess risk of bias and extract relevant data. Results will be tabulated and, if possible, a meta-analysis will be carried out.DiscussionThe systematic review outlined in this protocol aims to summarise current knowledge regarding descending pain modulation in IBS.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42015024284
Highlights
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder
The systematic review outlined in this protocol aims to summarise current knowledge regarding descending pain modulation in IBS
A significant amount of research suggests that the abdominal pain associated with IBS is due to peripheral changes occurring in the gut [2,3,4]
Summary
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder. While abdominal pain is a dominant symptom of IBS, many sufferers report widespread hypersensitivity and present with other chronic pain conditions. Discussion: The systematic review outlined in this protocol aims to summarise current knowledge regarding descending pain modulation in IBS. We will undertake a systematic review of the research examining descending pain modulation in IBS.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
