The human brain, home to around 86 billion neurons, is responsible for controlling every sensation, thought, and movement in the body. Yet, in a fascinating twist of biology, this powerful organ is completely incapable of feeling pain.

Unlike skin, muscles, and internal organs, brain tissue lacks pain receptors. These receptors, called nociceptors, detect harmful stimuli and trigger the pain response, but within the brain’s gray and white matter, they are entirely absent. This is why people can undergo awake brain surgeries without experiencing pain during the procedure. While the scalp and skull are numbed with anaesthetics, the exposed brain tissue can be safely touched or even operated on while the patient is alert and responsive.

However, the structures surrounding the brain tell a different story. The meninges, blood vessels, and scalp are filled with pain-sensitive nerves. Headaches, migraines, and trauma-related pain are caused not by the brain itself but by irritation or pressure on these outer areas.

This rare paradox reveals just how specialised and complex the brain truly is. It is the master processor of pain signals across the body, yet remains numb to its own touch.