Swearing reduces pain

Swearing in response to pain can have a painkilling effect (what did you say the last time you caught your hand in a door? I'll bet it wasn't "Thank you Mr. Door, for reminding me to move my hand faster next time").

Psychologists believe that swearing, considered an act of aggression if it's not part of your normal language, could trigger a fight-or-flight reaction which boosts pain tolerance.

However, if you use the f-word as an adjective, noun and verb, don't expect too much, as frequent swearing tends to dull the analgesic effect. It's believed that it's the emotional content that is attached to the word is crucial. Lets face it, saying "sugar!" doesn't have much in the way of emotional content for most of us.

I'm not going to suggest everyone start swearing like a sailor, or turning the air blue with profanities on stubbing a toe, but it may be a useful strategy for dealing with a bad case of DOMS! Perhaps though, instead of dropping the f-bomb every time, try emotionally charging a different word. I can think of several people for whom the word "jedward" triggers an instant fight or flight reaction!