What is the purpose of pain?

Donna Hill Howes, RN

Family Practitioner

Believe it or not, pain can be a good thing. The nervous system triggers a sensation of pain to stop you from doing something that might cause a severe injury and to let you know that something may be wrong. In most cases, if you treat the source of the pain, it will go away.

Continue Learning about Pain

I have abdominal pain…should I be worried?

Whether mild or severe, abdominal pain affects almost everyone at some point or another, but for a variety of reasons. It can be worrisome and uncomfo...

Getting flexible for drug-free pain relief

Just how important is stretching? "Super important," says Wendy Batts, MS, a regional master instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine. ...

Anxious? Neurotic? It may affect how you process pain

Pain is your body’s way of informing you that something’s not quite right. It can be dull or throbbing, aching or tingling. It can be short-term (acut...

There is no single test that can differentiate between nerve, muscle, or skeletal problems. Learn mo...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

What is the purpose of pain?

Continue Learning about Pain