Did you know there are 3 types of PAINS?

Unraveling the 3 Types of Pain Recognized by the International Association for the Study of Pain

Pain is a complex and multifaceted experience, and the International Association for the Study of Pain identifies three main types of pain that deserve our attention:

1. Nociceptive Pain: This type of pain occurs when there is an injury or damage to a specific tissue in the body. It can be the result of trauma, fractures, kidney stones and other problems that affect the skin, muscles and organs. It is a pain that is generally well understood, as its origin is clear. Treatment usually involves “removing or treating” whatever is causing it and using appropriate pain relievers.

2. Neuropathic Pain: Here, the pain is caused by damage or disease affecting the nerve tissues. Examples include postherpetic neuralgia and trigeminal neuralgia. These conditions can be extremely debilitating as they directly affect the nerves and their ability to transmit pain signals. Treatment for neuropathic pain usually involves specific neuropathy medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and pain relievers.

3. Nociplastic Pain: This is a relatively new term that began to be used in 2017 by the International Association for the Study of Pain.

Nociplastic pain is intriguing because it is not associated with overt injury or disease in specific tissues. It occurs in tissues that appear normal and do not show signs of neuropathy. Unfortunately, many people, including healthcare professionals, are not familiar with this type of pain. Nociplastic pain tends to be chronic, persisting for months or even years. Examples include fibromyalgia, certain types of headaches, back pain, and some Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) and Orofacial Pain. The treatment of nociplastic pain is complex and may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and specific pain-relieving medications.

It is important to emphasize that TMDs are often underdiagnosed and can be treated with procedures that are not supported by scientific evidence. Over time, these conditions can evolve into a chronic form that is difficult to treat.

It is essential to avoid self-medication, as the inappropriate use of medication or analgesics can not only worsen the pain, but also make it chronic.

Understanding these three types of pain is essential to direct the appropriate treatment and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from chronic pain. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these forms of pain, it is critical to seek expert medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Pain should not be ignored, and knowledge is the key to dealing with it effectively.