Change in the concept of pain over time

Abstract

Until the mid-twentieth century, it was thought that complaint of pain has physical or psychological origins. From this time onwards, a large number of researches analyzed the correctness of pain concept and gradually changed the concept of pain. Today, according to theoretical and research resources, regardless of its type, duration and severity, pain is conceptualized as a bio-psychosocial phenomenon that consists of emotional states and motivational, learning, brain circuits and neuroplasticity. The experience of pain in understanding of pain generally and in chronic pain specially is too important. Based on these findings there is no longer place for the old attitude that pain has physical or psychological origins. This article attempts to show the historical development of changing the concept pain over time.

Keywords

• pain
• chronic pain
• psychological states