Gate Control Theory of Pain

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What primary function do large nerve fibers (Aβ) have in pain perception according to the gate control theory?

  • They enhance the perception of pain by facilitating small nerve fibers.
  • They activate inhibitory interneurons to modulate pain signals. (correct)
  • They travel through the spinal cord to relay sensory information only.
  • They transmit noxious pain signals directly to the brain.

According to the gate control theory, what happens when nonnoxious sensory input is present?

  • It entirely blocks all pain sensations from being transmitted.
  • It suppresses pain by 'closing the gate' to noxious input. (correct)
  • It amplifies the pain signals sent by the small nerve fibers (C).
  • It increases the perception of pain due to distraction.

What are the two types of fibers involved in the balance of pain perception as per the gate control theory?

  • Aα and Aδ fibers
  • Aβ and B fibers
  • C and D fibers
  • Aβ and C fibers (correct)

Which of the following best explains a practical application of the gate control theory in pain management?

<p>Applying pressure or rubbing the painful area reduces pain perception. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the gate control theory suggest pain transmission can be modulated?

<p>By the balance between large and small nerve fiber activity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Gate Control Theory

Pain perception is influenced by the balance of information from large and small nerve fibers.

Large Nerve Fibers (Aβ)

Sensory fibers that carry non-painful information.

Small Nerve Fibers (C)

Sensory fibers that carry pain signals.

Inhibitory Interneurons

Neurons that reduce the activity of other neurons.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Non-noxious Input

Stimuli that do not cause pain.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Gate Control Theory

  • Proposed by Wall and Melzack (1965)
  • Explains pain perception as a balance between large and small nerve fibers
  • Large nerve fibres (Aβ) carry information
  • Small nerve fibers (C) carry information
  • Collaterals of large sensory fibers (Aβ) activate inhibitory interneurons
  • Inhibitory interneurons modulate pain transmission through small fibers (C)
  • Non-noxious sensory input suppresses pain transmission
  • Rubbing or liniments reduce pain by increasing non-noxious sensory input, thus closing the "gate" to noxious input.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

The Gate Control Theory PDF

More Like This

Pain and the Gate Control Theory
8 questions

Pain and the Gate Control Theory

AdmirableSerpentine3766 avatar
AdmirableSerpentine3766
Pain Management and Gate Control Theory
28 questions
Pain Perception and Physiology
36 questions
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser