by PatrickWall (Author)
Drawing on the latest biological findings, Patrick Wall takes an accessible look at the causes and consequences of pain, both mental and physical. He also provides a balanced assessment of the possible cures, ranging from drugs and surgery through relaxation techniques and exercise to acupuncture and herbalism, the aim being to provide readers with enough information to control and understand their own pain as well as that of others. Yet this is no mere self-help volume. Rather, the author sets his scientific account in broad context, interweaving it with a wealth of fascinating - and sometimes disturbing - historical detail about famous characters who derive pleasure from pain, the unexpected reactions of injured people, the power of placebo, and so on. We come away with a realization that although pain is just one facet of our sensory world, it is also a remarkable and important aspect of our normal conscious self.
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 186
Publisher: Orion
Published: 22 Jul 1999
ISBN 10: 0297842552
ISBN 13: 9780297842552
Book Overview: Part of the Maps of the Mind series of short books by leading researchers from around the world that draws together the major topics in the sciences of brain and mind. Series editor is Steven Rose, Professor of Biology at the Open University, UK, and one of Britain's leading neuroscientists and science writers. Series published to mark the Decade of the Brain. Interest in neuroscience has never been greater. Patrick Wall is the co-originator with Ronald Melzack of the influential 'gate-control' theory of pain. Ninth World Congress on Pain to be held in Vienna in August 1999 in honour of Patrick Wall.