Neurobiological mechanisms of pain

Pain begins when specialized nerve endings called nociceptors detect tissue damage or danger. These signals travel through nerve fibers to the spinal cord and then to the brain. In the brain, areas process these signals as pain, which helps alert you to injury or threat. Neurotransmitters and chemical messengers modulate this process, amplifying or reducing pain perception. Additionally, the brain’s emotional and cognitive states can influence how pain feels. Overall, pain involves a complex interaction between nerves, chemicals, and brain regions, serving as a vital warning system to protect the body from harm.