PAIN & SPORT PERFORMANCE
A 3-part series on the role of pain in sport, examining the underlying science and its function in injury and performance. It describes the biopsychosocial dimensions of pain, and the varying ways in which these factors may unfold in sport through case study review.
Part 3- FEATS OF PAIN TOLERANCE
Lore and legend abound regarding unusual feats of pain tolerance in sport, wilderness and military environments. The life-threatening predicament faced by climber, Aron Ralston, is described as is his self-rescue which begins with severing his own arm. A review of the science of pain provides insight into how such actions are possible. This review of the pain experience, provides insight into the mysteries of pain and performance, identifying the underlying biology and psychology, and the ways in which these forces can be harnessed by athletes.