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somatic pain

Somatic pain originates from the skin, muscles, joints, or bones. It is typically localized, meaning you can usually point directly to where it hurts. This type of pain results from injury, inflammation, or stretching of tissues, and is transmitted through sensory nerves to the brain. Examples include a cut, a broken bone, or muscle soreness. It serves as a warning signal, prompting us to avoid further damage and seek treatment. Somatic pain is often sharp or throbbing and tends to be well-defined, making it easier to identify compared to other pain types.