Damaged tissue releases prostaglandins → activation of nociceptors → transduction (chemical → electrical) → AP generated on first-order neuron → travels through dorsal horn → synapse with second-order neuron in dorsal horn (specifically substantia gelatinosa) (1st order releases substance P) → decussation across spinal cord → spinothalamic tract (anterolateral) → up to thalamus → synapse with third-order neuron → primary somatosensory cortex (post-central gyrus)
