Adverse childhood experiences are linked with abdominal and back pain

What is it about?

This study looked at how childhood maltreatment might be linked to physical sensations in adulthood. People reported past experiences of maltreatment and then used a phone app to indicate where they were feeling bad sensations (e.g., pain, tightness, constriction, or discomfort) in their body. The results showed that people with a history of maltreatment were more likely to experience these unpleasant sensations, especially in the belly and the lower back.

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Photo by Jakub Kriz on Unsplash

Photo by Jakub Kriz on Unsplash

Why is it important?

These findings should help to destigmatize somatic symptoms following childhood maltreatment. Additionally, symptoms appeared likely to be connected to stress and emotions rather than medical illness, which suggests that certain types of talk therapy could be helpful in managing these symptoms.