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If you live with chronic pain, you might be aware that pain can often be something of a ‘mystery’; the source of your discomfort may be unclear, the frequency and/or intensity of the pain may be inconsistent and unpredictable, and the symptoms of chronic pain can vary greatly from one patient to the next. And the many myths circulated about chronic pain can further add to the confusion.
While we intend to explore some of those myths at a future date, for the purpose of this article we’re here to share some fascinating, little-known chronic pain facts.
1. The brain doesn’t feel pain
The coverings around the brain, bones and scalp have pain receptors, and while the brain functions as a detector of pain, the brain itself does not have any pain receptors, and therefore doesn’t feel any actual pain.
2. Pain can be “interrupted” before you feel it
By way of an implantable spinal cord stimulator that effectively blocks pain signals before they reach the brain and replaces them with more pleasant sensations, sufferers can take control and experience significant pain relief .
3. Redheads are more sensitive to pain
Research suggests that the same gene mutation which gives hair a red color is also responsible for influencing the body’s sensitivity to pain. Additionally, redheads are commonly known to be more resistant to local pain blockers such as Novocaine, and generally require a larger dose of general anesthesia.
4. Sex can help to relieve pain
Studies show that arousal releases endorphins in the brain that help to diminish the symptoms of pain, particularly in the case of migraine headaches. So next time you catch yourself starting to say, “not tonight Dear, I have a headache,” you may want to reconsider.
5. Physicians can “Zap” pain away
Using Radiofrequency Treatment, (also known as Rhizotomy,) heat generated around medial branch nerves can destroy offending nerves to prevent them from transmitting pain signals to the brain.
6. Pain may shrink the brain
Recent studies indicate that chronic back pain can cause the grey matter in the brain to shrink by as much as 11%! This can impact the brain’s ability to process information, as well as diminish memory; yet another good reason to seek treatment for your back pain.
7. Profanity may help you deal with pain better
Some studies have suggested that forcefully expelling curse words may actually diminish the body’s perception of pain, possibly due to a fight-or-flight response triggered by anger or fear. Whatever the reason, if it helps dull the pain, let it out!
8. Lost limbs can still cause pain
Did you know that even after a limb amputation, many patients may still experience pain that is perceived as emanating from the amputated limb? This is the result of a neuropathic condition known as Phantom Limb Pain (PLP).
What You Can Do About Your Chronic Pain
At Florida Pain Relief Centers, our expert pain physicians focus on providing comprehensive, personalized care for every patient. The highly-skilled providers at FPRC take a multidisciplinary approach to advanced pain management, assessing your individual needs to more effectively relieve your chronic pain and restore your quality of life.
We are equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies and a comprehensive, multi-modal approach to treating your chronic pain. Relieving your pain and ensuring your comfort are the top priorities at Florida Pain Relief Centers.
If you are tired of living with symptoms of chronic pain and want more information on options for minimizing or eliminating your suffering, call Florida Pain Relief Centers at (800) 215-0029 or click the button below to schedule your consultation online for one of our many clinic locations.
