Why do we instinctually shake our hands when we hurt them, like when we punch something?

Question

Why do we instinctually shake our hands when we hurt them, like when we punch something?

In: Biology

Answer 1

Gate control theory. The simplest I’ve heard this explained is that one big fish swimming through a channel is very noticeable. A lot of small fish swimming through the channel with the big fish make it less noticeable.