The Gate Control Theory PDF
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Uploaded by UnquestionableIndigo
CMHS, Injibara University
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Summary
This is an explanation of the gate control theory of pain. The theory explains pain perception as a function of balanced information through large and small nerve fibers. Non-noxious input can suppress pain.
Full Transcript
The gate control theory was presented by Wall and Melzack (1965) to explain factors influencing pain perception. It states that pain is a function of the balance between the information through large nerve fibres (Aβ) and that through small nerve fibres (C). The collaterals of the large sensory fibe...
The gate control theory was presented by Wall and Melzack (1965) to explain factors influencing pain perception. It states that pain is a function of the balance between the information through large nerve fibres (Aβ) and that through small nerve fibres (C). The collaterals of the large sensory fibers (Aβ) carrying cutaneous sensory input activate inhibitory interneurons, which inhibit (modulate) pain-transmission information carried by the small pain fibres (C). This means that nonnoxious (sensory) input suppresses pain, or 'closes the gate' to noxious input. This explains why rubbing or liniments (balms) reduces pain.
