By Dr Kelly Wade/Cosmos Studios in partnership with SAHMRI
What is Pain?
Pain is your body’s alarm system, created by your brain from nerve signals to help you detect injury, avoid danger, and rest while healing.
Why pain matters
Pain protects us, but when it becomes excessive, it can limit life and activity, so understanding it helps doctors and scientists create better treatments.
Types of pain
Acute pain
Chronic pain
Nociceptive pain
Neuropathic pain
Nociplastic pain
Sudden, short-term pain from an injury, like stubbing your toe.
Pain that lasts for 3 months or longer, like arthritis or IBS.
Caused by damage to tissues like your skin, muscles, or bones.
Caused by damaged nerves and often feels like burning or zapping.
When the brain turns up the ‘volume’ on pain signals, even if there’s no injury.
Spider venom pain relief
SAHMRI researchers have discovered how spider venom can safely block gut pain signals without impacting the entire nervous system, offering a promising alternative to addictive drugs like codeine.
Virtual reality
VR worlds not only provide fun but also help people with chronic pain reduce discomfort by retraining their brains during exercise.