Objectively measuring physical pain has been impossible. Doctors have relied on a patient’s self-report. And when asked to compensate accident victims for pain and suffering, so have juries.

But all that may soon change. Recently Stanford University researchers have used brain images and computer technology to assess pain.  In this study, a computer

Victims with full thickness burns, as discussed here, on their arms and legs experience tremendous swelling from the fluids necessary to heal. The swelling puts pressure on the nerves and tissues of the healthy sections of the burned limbs.  The pressure may cause a complete loss of blood flow and tissue damage to the

Overview of burn depths

 Partial thickness burns:

 First degree burns (superficial):

  •  May blister and peel in a few days (ie. sunburn). 
  • Heals in 3-6 days
  • Generally no scarring
  • Topical creams provide relief
  • Antibiotics not needed
  • Drink water

Second degree burns (deeper partial thickness):

  • Blisters are typical.
  • Heals in 14-21 days.
  • Blisters provide