Understanding Pain – Part 1: What Is Pain, Really?

We all know what pain feels like — but what is it, exactly?

The official definition:
“An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with, actual or potential tissue damage.” (IASP, 2021)

That’s a bit of a mouthful, so let’s break it down.

Pain is an unpleasant feeling that can be physical or emotional. It’s what we feel when the brain believes there might be a threat to the body — even if there’s no actual injury. In other words, pain is your body’s built-in alarm system.

But here’s the important part:

👉 Pain doesn’t always mean damage.

You can feel pain without any injury, and you can have an injury without feeling much pain. That’s because pain is about protection, not damage.

Think of it like a smoke alarm — it doesn’t wait for a fire. It goes off when it senses danger, like smoke or heat.
Your brain works the same way with pain. It’s trying to keep you safe.

Pain Can Feel Like:

• Sharp

• Dull

• Throbbing

• Burning

And it can range from mild to intense.

Types of Pain:

Acute Pain

• Short-term (under 3 months)

• Usually linked to injury, surgery, or illness

• Pain usually subsides once tissues heal
  Examples: sprained ankle, strained back, broken bone

Persistent (Chronic) Pain

• Lasts longer than 3 months

• Often continues after tissues are expected to have healed

• Usually involves more complex factors, including the brain and nervous system

Key Takeaways:

✅ Pain ≠ damage – it’s your brain trying to protect you
✅ Pain is complex – it involves your body and your mind

What To Do During a Flare-Up of pain:

• Remind yourself: Pain is a warning sign and not directly correlated to tissue damage 

• Stay calm: Reassure yourself that you and your body are safe

• Keep moving gently: Movement is key to recovery

• Educate yourself: Understanding pain is one of the best tools you have