When you’re in pain, it can be tough to tell what’s going on and where your discomfort is coming from. And that can be scary!
If this sounds familiar, relax. We’ll break down the common sources of pain in easy to understand terms and help you get to the bottom of whatever’s hurting you.
Somatic Pain
This is the most common cause of pain and the type that you are likely most familiar with already.
Somatic pain is the sensation you feel when you cut your finger, fall and hurt yourself, pull a muscle, or work out just a tiny bit too hard. This is frequently described as a “sharp pain” and can be the most intense form of pain depending on your injury.
There are two types of somatic pain – superficial and deep. Superficial refers to surface injuries, while deep somatic pain is often linked to internal injuries like broken bones that radiate pain to the surrounding tissue.
Visceral Pain
Visceral pain is more difficult to pinpoint and diagnose because it comes from your internal organs. Some common examples of this type of pain are appendicitis, bladder infections, IBS, and menstrual cramps.
Visceral pain is also described as a powerful, deep, radiating pain. Or, as an ache. But, it can also feel like contractions or cramping, and waves of pain that change in intensity.
Because visceral pain is often associated with serious medical conditions, it often requires a professional medical diagnosis.
Nerve Pain
Also called neuropathic pain, nerve pain is complex and sometimes hard to identify. This type of pain can be caused by damage, irritation, or destruction to the nerves, resulting in a wide variety of strange symptoms other than discomfort.
Nerve pain can feel like burning, tingling, stabbing, prickling, or sharp and shooting uncomfortable sensations.
If you’re experiencing nerve pain, it’s time to see a doctor. There are few effective home remedies for this type of discomfort. Additionally, herbal remedies such as corydalis for nerve pain might also be worth researching further.
Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain refers to discomfort in the muscles, bones, connective tissues, and nerves. And, unlike the other pain types on this list, you might feel it in just one part of the body, like your lower back. Or, you might feel it throughout your body if you have a systemic condition like fibromyalgia.
This pain type also includes the sensations associated with arthritis, sprains and strains, and most sports injuries.
Acute musculoskeletal pain is often treated with over the counter medication with great success. Check out this page for a few good options.
But, if this pain type persists, it can become chronic and require professional medical care.
Sources of Pain Explained
Now that you know how to identify different sources of pain, it’s time to take action. Hopefully, you’ll be feeling better soon!
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