Definitions of nociception, pain, and chronic pain with implications regarding science and society

Neurosci Lett. 2019 May 29:702:1-2. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.11.039. Epub 2018 Nov 29.

Abstract

The terminology used in pain research has strong implications regarding conducted science as well as how scientists, clinicians and society interpret our findings. This article goes over the standard definitions and their nuanced modifications recently proposed. Then, evidence and interpretation pitfalls are expounded, concluding with a plea to keep terminology precise, at least in scientific reporting.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Pain
  • Nociception*
  • Pain*
  • Terminology as Topic*