Definition of Somatoform pain disorder:

Somatoform pain disorder is pain that is severe enough to disrupt a person's everyday life.

The pain is like that of a physical disorder, but no physical cause is found. The pain is thought to be due to psychological problems.

The pain that people with this disorder feel is real. It is not created or faked on purpose (malingering).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In the past, this disorder was thought to be related to emotional stress. The pain was often said to be "all in their head."

However, patients with somatoform pain disorder seem to experience painful sensations in a way that increases their pain level. Pain and worry create a cycle that is hard to break.

People who have a history of physical or sexual abuse are more likely to have this disorder. However, not every person with somatoform pain disorder has a history of abuse.

As researchers learn more about the connections between the brain and body, there is more evidence that emotional well-being affects the way in which pain is perceived.