Torn nerve endings??
http://www.stjohn.org/HealthInfoLib/swArticle.aspx?2,29
I just thought of this question. You know when you fall down and scrape your knees or something like that? Why does it hurt when you touch it? (you have a little blood going also)
2 answers
Pain is a very complicated sensation. Basically, there are special nerve receptors in your body for pain. When your tissues are damaged, this causes a release of chemicals called cytokines that bind to the pain receptors and send a message to your brain that you are in pain. This stimulation of your pain receptors puts them on high alert, making them extra sensative to any stimulation. So, when you touch your "ouchie," you are creating stimulation to those over-sensitive receptors, as well as causing more release of the cytokines from the damaged tissue.
One extra tidbit, pain can also be inhibited (or less severe) if you provide stimulation to another area of your body. This can be with touch, pressure, or warmth. But, the most effective is with pain. This can cause certain parts of the pain pathway to be blocked leading to less pain. This is one reason they think that accupuncture works. So, the next time you hit your finger with a hammer, have someone pinch your other arm. Well, it may help. :O)
One extra tidbit, pain can also be inhibited (or less severe) if you provide stimulation to another area of your body. This can be with touch, pressure, or warmth. But, the most effective is with pain. This can cause certain parts of the pain pathway to be blocked leading to less pain. This is one reason they think that accupuncture works. So, the next time you hit your finger with a hammer, have someone pinch your other arm. Well, it may help. :O)