Pain and swelling are signs that warn of a problem in the body.
Causes. Inflammation (swelling) occurs in response to a toxic substance that has accumulated in a damaged tissue to keep it from spreading in the body. When an area is inflamed, the nerve endings are pressed and this results in pain.
Treatment. Generally, it is easier to treat acute pain, which is normally generated due to the presence of soft tissue damage, infection and/or inflammation. It is usually treated with medications, usually analgesics, or through the appropriate techniques.
Chronic pain is associated with higher rates of depressed mood and anxiety. Sleep disorders and insomnia occur because the disease causes pain; the medication itself can be another cause.