In pain clinics, mild electric currents are applied to the skin or directly to the spinal cord. This procedure sends mild pain messages to the spinal cord and brain, which effectively close the neurological gates to reduce the patient's more agonizing pain. This technique is an application of the __________ theory.
A)sensory conflict
B)lock-and-key
C)gate control
D)sensory adaptation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The technique described is an application of the gate control theory, which suggests that the spinal cord contains a neurological "gate" that either blocks pain signals or allows them to continue on to the brain. By applying mild electric currents, this theory is utilized to help manage and reduce pain.

In Pain Clinics, Mild Electric Currents Are Applied to the Skin