When you go to the cosmetologist for a facial wax, she will press her finger against the part of your face she has just pulled hair out of. The resulting decrease in your discomfort is best accounted for by the _________ theory.
A) substance P
B) massage
C) pressure
D) gate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gate theory of pain suggests that non-painful input can close the "gates" to painful input, which reduces the perception of pain. In this case, the pressure applied by the cosmetologist's finger may activate non-painful nerve fibers, which in turn may close the gates to painful nerve fibers that were activated by the waxing. This can result in decreased discomfort for the individual. Substance P is a neurotransmitter that is involved in pain transmission, but it is not directly relevant to the reduction of discomfort in this scenario. Massage and pressure may provide some temporary relief for muscle tension, but they are not the primary mechanisms for reducing discomfort in this particular case.

When You Go to the Cosmetologist for a Facial Wax