Which factor is most likely to decrease a client's perception of pain?

Which factor is most likely to decrease a client's perception of pain?

• A. Internal sense of control.
• B. The biological response to exercise.
• C. Positive previous experience managing pain.
• D. Age.

Answer: (B)

Pain perception can be modulated by physiological processes during physical activity. When you exercise, the body releases endorphins and other neurotransmitters that activate the brain’s pain-inhibition pathways, producing exercise-induced hypoalgesia. This endogenous analgesia directly lowers the intensity of pain signals, making the biological response to exercise a strong, reliable way to reduce perceived pain. Other factors can help with coping—an internal sense of control shifts attention and expectations in a way that can lessen pain perceptions, and a positive history of managing pain can improve coping strategies and reduce anxiety. Age can influence pain sensitivity, but its effect is variable and not as robust a mechanism for lowering pain as the biochemical changes from exercise.

Pain perception can be modulated by physiological processes during physical activity. When you exercise, the body releases endorphins and other neurotransmitters that activate the brain’s pain-inhibition pathways, producing exercise-induced hypoalgesia. This endogenous analgesia directly lowers the intensity of pain signals, making the biological response to exercise a strong, reliable way to reduce perceived pain.

Other factors can help with coping—an internal sense of control shifts attention and expectations in a way that can lessen pain perceptions, and a positive history of managing pain can improve coping strategies and reduce anxiety. Age can influence pain sensitivity, but its effect is variable and not as robust a mechanism for lowering pain as the biochemical changes from exercise.