Biomedical Model Of Pain

On March this year I underwent a laser surgery for my eyes to eliminate myopia. It was one of the worst painful experiences of my life. But the strange thing was that most of the people who had my same surgery experienced a mild degree of pain and burning sensation, and some did not at all, instead my experience was really hurting.

I think that this has to do with the theory of gate control as the theory integrates psychology into the traditional biomedical model of pain. Indeed, I can recognize some other components than the biological ones that play a major role in my excruciating pain.

After coming home from the outpatient procedure, I had to stay in my bed in darkness with my eyes closed. I felt very dependent from my husband and children and I was so sorry to be such a burden for them. In those moments I felt my pain grow. On the other hand, I felt better when they were close to me holding my hand.
I think that these unfulfilled expectations played a role in increasing my pain.

To help me dealing with that pain, my husband gave me a manual specifically written for PRK laser patients that helped me a lot with the post-operation. Indeed, I noticed that having more information was useful to lower my pain.

The pain experience during this surgery varies from one individual to another and it depends from a lot of different factors, among them there are emotional and cognitive factors as