What happened in your nervous system when you step on attack?

When you step on something sharp, sensory receptors in your skin detect the pain and send signals through peripheral nerves to your spinal cord and brain. This triggers a reflex arc, causing an immediate withdrawal response before the brain fully processes the pain. The brain then interprets the signals as pain, prompting a conscious reaction and emotional response. Stress hormones may also be released, preparing your body to react to potential injury.