Stimulation of large-diameter A-beta afferents to activate local inhibitory circuits in the dorsal horn best describes what analgesic mechanism of TENS?
A) The gate theory of pain control
B) Descending inhibition
C) Analgesic hyperstimulation
D) Analgesic potentiation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gate theory of pain control proposes that non-painful input can close the "gates" to painful input, which prevents pain sensations from being transmitted to the brain. Stimulation of large-diameter A-beta afferents can activate local inhibitory interneurons in the dorsal horn, which can close these gates and reduce the transmission of pain signals. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer.

Stimulation of Large-Diameter A-Beta Afferents to Activate Local Inhibitory Circuits