Racism as a Source of Pain.

Viewing physical pain as one of the consequences of racism and societal injustice more broadly illuminates these effects and points towards effective solutions for those afflicted with chronic pain as well as offering the potential for a more just and inclusive society. However, more innovative psychological approaches,[32],[59],[60] such as emotional awareness and expression therapy[32],[60] and pain reprocessing therapy,[61] specifically target psychosocial trauma or factors that activate the pain danger alarm, and show promise for greater pain reduction. THE BRAIN AS A KEY SOURCE OF CHRONIC PAIN Recent advances in theory and research highlight the fundamental role of the brain in the development and maintenance of chronic pain.[18],[19] In contrast to the traditional medical conceptualization, tissue pathology is not required for the experience of pain. With ongoing threats of either a somatic or psychosocial nature, pain can become chronic.[28],[29],[32] Is such brain-based or "centrally-mediated" pain a "false" pain experience?. [Extracted from the article]