There is no method to directly measure pain as a phenomenon, and studies of pain are dependent upon the subjective reports of those being treated. There is therefore a large potential for perception and reporting bias in pain trials. But there are biological mechanisms by which mental processes can affect pain. For example, increased physical activity can release endorphins that naturally inhibit pain. The perception of pain can also be decreased by simple distraction. Even cursing reduces reported pain intensity. For these reasons the placebo effect for pain is typically high, around 30
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