Q: Does the brain know the difference between hurt and pain?

A: Oh, my. Talk about a complex question! In the English Language, the words hurt, and pain are not only used as synonyms but also as nouns, verbs, or adjectives. If I use the words as nouns and define hurt as a social injury and pain as a physical injury, then my brain’s opinion is that the brain may know the difference--since it does not process physical and social injuries identically. There is a differentiation in the brain between where pain versus hurt is decoded. However, brain imaging studies have shown that overlap between the two regions also exists. Metaphorically, think of these as mashed potatoes and baked potatoes. The brain knows there is a difference in appearance and somewhat in taste and consistency, yet ultimately still identifies them both as potatoes. Bottom line: social hurt and physical pain both create discomfort. Make no mistake, a broken heart may ache as much as a broken bone.