Basic Science of Pain
Pain is more than just a signal from the body; it is a complex experience shaped by many factors. Our team of Osteopaths can help by discussing your pain, diagnosing what is causing and/or contributing to you pain, and therefore, how best to treat and manage symptoms and promote recovery.
The Basic Science of Pain: Understanding the Body’s Alarm System
Pain is a universal human experience. It is a complex and highly individualised response that serves as the body’s alarm system. As Osteopaths, understanding the basic science behind pain helps us explain it to our clients and support their recovery.
What is Pain?
Pain is not just a direct response to injury; it is a perception created by the brain based on information from the body. The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with, actual or potential tissue damage.” This definition highlights the fact that pain is not always linked to physical injury—it can also be influenced by emotions, past experiences, and overall health.
The Nervous System and Pain
Pain can be the response of the nervous system when a “stimulus” is detected by specialised nerve endings called nociceptors, which are found throughout the body. These nociceptors send signals to the spinal cord and brain when they detect harmful or potentially harmful stimuli, such as extreme temperatures, pressure, or inflammation. The brain then processes these signals and decides how to respond.
There are two main types of pain signals:
Acute pain – This is the body’s immediate warning system. It is usually short-term and occurs when there is an obvious injury, such as a cut or a sprained ankle. Once the injury heals, the pain typically subsides.
Chronic pain – This lasts longer than three months and can persist even after the initial injury has healed. It is often due to changes in the nervous system, meaning the pain signals continue even when the injury has recovered.
Factors That Influence Pain
Pain is not just a physical sensation—it is influenced by multiple factors:
Biological factors – Injury, inflammation, and nervous system sensitivity can all contribute to pain.
Psychological factors – Stress, anxiety, and past experiences with pain can alter the way pain is perceived.
Social factors – Support from family and friends, work environment, and daily activities can all impact pain levels.
How Can We Manage Pain?
Understanding pain as a complex interaction between the body and brain allows for more effective management strategies. Some key approaches include:
Movement and exercise – Regular movement can help reduce pain sensitivity and improve function. Exercise is essential for recovery as well as overall physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Manual therapy – Osteopathy and other hands-on treatments can help support recovery and ease pain.
Education – Understanding that pain does not always mean damage can help reduce fear and improve confidence in movement.
Lifestyle modifications – Sleep, diet, and stress management all play crucial roles in pain perception and experience.
Final Thoughts
Pain is more than just a signal from the body; it is a complex experience shaped by many factors. Our team of Osteopaths can help by discussing your pain and diagnosing what is causing and/or contributing to you pain. By understanding how pain works, we can take a more informed and proactive approach to managing it. If you are struggling with pain, an evidence-informed Osteopathic approach could help guide you towards recovery and improved well-being.
References
Moseley, G. L., & Butler, D. S. (2017). Explain Pain (2nd ed.). Noigroup Publications.
International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). (2020). IASP Terminology. Retrieved from https://www.iasp-pain.org/terminology
Melzack, R., & Wall, P. D. (1965). Pain mechanisms: A new theory. Science, 150(3699), 971-979.
Woolf, C. J. (2011). Central sensitization: Implications for the diagnosis and treatment of pain. Pain, 152(3), S2-S15.
Louw, A., Diener, I., Butler, D. S., & Puentedura, E. J. (2011). The effect of neuroscience education on pain, disability, anxiety, and stress in chronic musculoskeletal pain. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 92(12), 2041-2056.
