In the past, this disorder was thought to be related to emotional stress. The pain was often said to be "all in their head."
However, patients with somatoform pain disorder seem to experience painful sensations in a way that increases their pain level. Pain and worry create a cycle that is hard to break.
People who have a history of physical or sexual abuse are more likely to have this disorder. However, not every person with somatoform pain disorder has a history of abuse.
As researchers learn more about the connections between the brain and body, there is more evidence that emotional well-being affects the way in which pain is perceived.
What causes Somatoform disorder?
In the past, this disorder was thought to be related to emotional stress. The pain was often said to be "all in their head."
However, patients with somatoform pain disorder seem to experience painful sensations in a way that increases their pain level. Pain and worry create a cycle that is hard to break.
People who have a history of physical or sexual abuse are more likely to have this disorder. However, not every person with somatoform pain disorder has a history of abuse.
As researchers learn more about the connections between the brain and body, there is more evidence that emotional well-being affects the way in which pain is perceived.