>----- Original Message -----
From: Helen Dynda <olddad66@runestone.net>
To: Multiple recipients of list ADHESIONS <adhesions@talk.obgyn.net>
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 1999 11:25 AM
Subject: Re: Pain >> How does the body control pain? -- Part 2
> HOW DOES THE BODY CONTROL PAIN?
>
> Pain signals are sent through a complex system of nerves in your brain
> and spinal cord. Your body tries to stop these signals from reaching
> their destination by creating chemicals that help block pain signals.
> These chemicals, called endorphins (en-DOOR-fins), are morphine-like
> painkilling substances that decrease the pain sensation.
>
> The body produces endorphins in response to different kinds of
> "controls."
> 1. These include "natural" controls, such as your own thoughts and
> emotions. For example: imagine that a father who is driving with his
> children is hurt in a car accident. The father is so worried about his
> children that he doesn't feel the pain from his own broken arm. The
> concern for his children has blocked the pain signal and kept the pain
> from affecting him.
>
> 2.) The body also produces endorphins in response to "outside" controls,
> such as medicine. Morphine is one example of a powerful pain-blocking
> medicine. Other outside pain control methods -- such as exercise,
> relaxation, massage, and heat and cold treatment -- can stimulate the
> body to either release endorphins or block pain signals in other ways.
>
> *** CONTINUED in PART 3 ***
>
> >--
> >The 15th century proverb which summarizes the purpose of medicine is:
> >* To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always. *
> >
>
> --
> The 15th century proverb which summarizes the purpose of medicine is:
> * To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always. *
>