Which type of pain is caused by damage to nerves in the central nervous system due to conditions such as stroke or trauma?

The type of pain caused by damage to nerves in the central nervous system, particularly due to conditions like stroke or trauma, is classified as central pain. This type of pain originates from injury or dysfunction of the central nervous system itself, impacting the brain and spinal cord pathways involved in processing pain signals.

Neuropathic pain is sometimes conflated with central pain, but it generally refers to pain stemming from damaged or dysfunctional peripheral nerves. While both types can involve nerve damage, central pain specifically is linked to the central nervous system. Central pain can persist long after the initial injury or stroke and can manifest as sensations that are often described as burning, aching, or sharp.

Phantom pain refers to sensations of pain that occur in an area of the body that has been amputated or removed, and psychogenic pain is influenced by psychological factors rather than direct physical injuries or conditions. Therefore, in the context of pain originating from significant nerve damage in the central nervous system, central pain is the most accurate choice.