Pain is used to describe uncomfortable sensations in the body that stems from activation of the nervous system. Pain has a broad range: it can range from annoying to debilitating, it may be consistent, it may start and stop frequently, it may only occur under certain conditions, it can develop suddenly and only last for a short period of time or it may be ongoing sensations that last or return over several months or even years.  Pain can also be described in many different ways: it may feel like a sharp stab or dull ache, it may be described as throbbing, pinching, stinging or even burning.  Pain may also be localized, only affecting a specific part of the body or it my by generalized like with overall body ached.

People also respond differently to pain: some have a high tolerance for pain and don not feel pain that easily/frequently and others have a low tolerance for pain and feel pain very intensely. Thus, pain is highly subjective.

The causes of pain can be due to a specific injury or medical condition or in some cases the cause of pain can even be less obvious or unknown. Illnesses and disorders that cause pain include: flu, arthritis, endometriosis and fibromyalgia. Pain can also be caused by bruises, burns, broken bones, etc.

Important principles of pain management include providing treatment that reduces the pain with minimal side effects, while still being able to maintain daily functions as well as preventing acute pain from progressing to chronic pain.

Medical attention is needed when the pain is a result of an injury or accident that may have caused damage to the body like bleeding, broken bones or a head injury. It is also needed when an acute, sharp internal pain is felt for it may be a sign of a serious problem like a ruptured appendix. Medical attention for pain is also needed when the pain is located in the chest, back, shoulders, neck or jaw together with other signs of a heart attack like shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness and weakness OR when the pain is interfering with your daily life, including the ability to sleep, work or taking part in any other activities that is enjoyed.