Chronic pain is common in conditions such as osteoarthritis and back pain. Changes in the joints, muscles, or surrounding tissues may lead to pain signals being sent into the nervous system over prolonged periods of time. As this happens, the nervous system can become more sensitive — the brain and spinal cord start amplifying these signals, making pain feel stronger or longer-lasting.

Sometimes pain persists even when there is no ongoing tissue damage — for example, after an injury has healed. This happens when the body’s pain system remains on high alert, like an alarm that keeps ringing after the danger has passed. The nerves and brain can become “trained” to expect pain, so normal signals are interpreted as threatening even when the body is safe. This doesn’t mean the pain isn’t real; it reflects how adaptable and protective the nervous system can be.

Because the pain system is designed to guard against harm, it can sometimes become overprotective. Stress, fatigue, poor sleep, or fear of movement can heighten this sensitivity, making normal activities such as walking, bending, or gentle exercise feel painful even when no injury is occurring. Understanding that pain reflects a sensitive alarm system — not necessarily ongoing damage — can be the first step towards recovery.