What defines referred pain?

Referred pain is characterized as pain that is felt in a location other than where it originates. This phenomenon occurs because the body’s nervous system often misinterprets the source of the pain due to the way nerves transmit signals. For instance, a person experiencing a heart attack may feel pain in their left arm or jaw instead of the chest, illustrating how referred pain can confuse the actual location of discomfort. This understanding is critical in clinical assessments, as recognizing referred pain can guide healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating underlying conditions effectively.