Keywords
Abstract
Referred pain is a complex neurophysiological phenomenon in which pain is perceived at a location different fromits true site of origin. This misperception occurs because of the convergence of visceral and somatic afferent fibers within the spinal cord, leading the brain to interpret visceral pain as originating fromsomatic structures. The phenomenon of referred pain has profound diagnostic implications in medicine, particularly in distinguishing between somatic and visceral sources of discomfort. This paper discusses the mechanisms, clinical importance, and diagnostic applications of referred pain, supported by classical examples and recent advances in neurophysiology. An understanding of referred pain enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves patient management, and deepens appreciation of the integrated nature of the human nervous system.
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