A true torment: Scientists explain why paper cuts hurt so much.

All cuts on our body are painful and uncomfortable, but one type stands out as disproportionately more painful. This refers to cuts from paper, as noted by IFLScience.

So why do these cuts seem to hurt more than others? Scientists suggest there are several reasons for this.

One reason is that these cuts typically occur on sensitive areas of the body, such as fingers or lips – particularly for those who still send paper letters.

"The nerve networks in these parts of the body are significantly different, allowing us to feel even minor pressure, heat, cold, or injuries. There are dedicated areas in our brain that receive signals from these body parts. This fine sensory system, which makes our fingers, lips, and other areas so sensitive, makes injuries more painful," says Gabriel Neal, an associate professor of family medicine at Texas A&M University.

Another reason why paper cuts hurt so much lies in the paper itself. The edge of a sheet may appear to be a clean and even cut to the naked eye. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the edges of the paper resemble a saw blade more than a chef's knife. This shape leaves a jagged wound rather than a smooth cut.

"The depths of such cuts are sufficient to activate the nerve fibers in the skin without damaging them, unlike deeper wounds, which limit the ability to transmit pain signals. With a paper cut, the nerve fibers are activated and retain their full function," the expert notes.

Additionally, cuts on the fingers mean that throughout the day, the wounds will be reopened repeatedly. A shallow cut also means that no scab will form, leaving the cut exposed, which certainly adds to the discomfort.

As a reminder, scientists have figured out why humans have only ten fingers on their hands and feet. Fingers play a crucial role in maintaining balance, stability, and mobility while walking, running, and engaging in various activities.