What does the term "pain threshold" refer to?

The term "pain threshold" specifically refers to the minimum level of stimulus that is perceived as painful by an individual. This is an important concept in understanding how pain is experienced by different people, as the pain threshold can vary widely from person to person. The threshold indicates the point at which a sensation becomes painful rather than merely uncomfortable.

In pain management and assessments, recognizing where a patient's pain threshold lies can help in evaluating their pain and tailoring appropriate interventions. By understanding that the pain threshold is not about how much pain someone can tolerate or an average pain level over a time period, healthcare providers can better assess and address the specific experiences of individuals dealing with pain.