Understanding and Managing Pain

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to understanding and managing pain, based on the provided lecture notes.

Bio-psycho-social phenomenon

Pain is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.

Acute Pain

Results from a specific injury and typically lasts less than 6 months.

Chronic Pain

Usually begins with an acute episode but does not decrease with treatment over time.

Afferent Neurons

Sensory neurons that convey information from sense organs toward the brain.

Efferent Neurons

Motor neurons that result in muscle movement or stimulation of organs or glands.

Interneurons

Connect sensory neurons to motor neurons.

Gate Control Theory

Pain perception is modulated by a 'gate' in the spinal cord which can open or close based on various factors.

Substantia Gelatinosa

A structure in the dorsal horns of the spinal cord that receives sensory input from A and C fibers.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that play a role in pain perception and include enkephalin, endorphin, and dynorphin.

Nonnarcotic Analgesics

Include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen.

Pain Inoculation

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy technique aimed at changing the perception of pain through psychological methods.

Mindfulness Meditation

A practice focused on enhancing awareness of thoughts and sensations in a nonjudgmental way, aiding in pain management.

Chronic Progressive Pain

Pain that persists longer than 6 months and increases in severity over time, often associated with degenerative disorders.

Recurrent Acute Pain

Intermittent episodes of pain that are acute but persist for more than 6 months.