What is nociceptive pain
Nociceptive pain is most common type of pain, it is caused by body tissue damage. Tissue may be related to skin, muscle, bone or any organ, where sensitive nerve endings are involved.
Common causes may involve:
- Trauma
- Burn
- Inflammation
- Fracture
- Surgery
Nociceptors are special receptors for pain, these are basically nerve endings, which can feel certain chemicals (chemical signals of pain) and send the signals to brain. These nociceptors are present throughout the body especially in skin, muscles, joints, bones and internal organs.
Nociceptive pain can be distinguished from other pain by considering followings:
- Caused by any potential damage
- It is usually sharp, stabbing, or cramping
- This type of pain is usually localized
- It increases by movement
It is usually treated by:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs
- Icing or hot treatment (in case of inflammation icing should be preferred, because it helps in minimizing inflammation)
- Physical therapy
At home RICE technique (rest, ice, compression, elevation) can also be helpful.
Persons of concern for treating such kind of pain is a primary care physician, pain management specialist or a DPT.
