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Review
. 2011 Oct;27(5):343-50.
doi: 10.1007/s12264-011-0139-0.

History of pain theories

Jun Chen  1
Affiliations
Review

History of pain theories

Jun Chen. Neurosci Bull. 2011 Oct.

Abstract
in English, Chinese

The concept of pain has remained a topic of long debate since its emergence in ancient times. The initial ideas of pain were formulated in both the East and the West before 1800. Since 1800, due to the development of experimental sciences, different theories of pain have emerged and become central topics of debate. However, the existing theories of pain may be appropriate for the interpretation of some aspects of pain, but are not yet comprehensive. The history of pain problems is as long as that of human beings; however, the understanding of pain mechanisms is still far from sufficient. Thus, intensive research is required. This historical review mainly focuses on the development of pain theories and the fundamental discoveries in this field. Other historical events associated with pain therapies and remedies are beyond the scope of this review.

疼痛的概念是从古至今一直争论不休的话题。 在进入19世纪之前, 东西方医学界已有疼痛概念的雏形, 但 很肤浅。 进入19世纪之后, 由于实验科学的发展, 持各种不同观点的疼痛学说应运而生, 且逐步成为各家学说守 护和争论的焦点。 然而科学实践证明, 每个学说可能在某些方面能够求证并释疑解惑, 但都不是万能之说。 疼痛 问题本身的历史应该与人类诞生后的历史一样长, 但是人类对疼痛机理的认识却令人惊奇地不足。 因此, 号召与 倡导对疼痛问题的更深入研究是必要的。 限于篇幅, 此综述仅叙述疼痛学说的发展史和奠定该领域的基本科学发 现, 而不涉及疼痛治疗方法及对人类有益的镇痛名药良方的相关历史。

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References

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