We know that the damage caused by pain can be felt physically and emotionally. Common words and phrases used in medical and patient community descriptions and discussions describe both sensory experiences related to nerve function as well as  psychological/emotional pain processing.

Some of these words might seem familiar, perhaps. Other words are likely to be less familiar and even bordering on “medical-ese”.  If you encounter a word or term you are not familiar with during the course of your pain care journey, let your health care provider know. If you are looking for further understanding regarding any of these common words, perhaps some of the links next to each word might be of further assistance until you have a chance for questions and answers at your next appointment.

• Allodynia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allodynia
• Causalgia: http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/causalgia
• Dysesthesia: http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/dysesthesia
• Hyperalgesia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperalgesia
• Hyperesthesia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperesthesia
• Hyperpathia: http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/hyperpathia
• Hypoalgesia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypoalgesia

For more information on terminology, research trends, and pain treatment options, The International Association for the Study of Pain is a worldwide leader in pain management advocacy and education.  Bringing “together scientists, clinicians, health-care providers, and policymakers to stimulate and support the study of pain and to translate that knowledge into improved pain relief worldwide”, they offer a wealth of resources.