Somatic Sensation IV

Abstract

Pain is usually considered as a separate topic because it has unusual features in comparison with other submodalities of somatic sensation and because it is so important to the physician. From the clinical standpoint, pain is significant in two respects. First, it can be an important symptom of pathology. Second, persistent pain can be extremely debilitating, affecting virtually every aspect of a patient’s life. This is reflected by the enormous amount of money that is spent on pain medication.