Definition: Proposed by Ronald Melzack and Patrick Wall, gate control theory suggests that the spinal cord contains a neurological “gate” that either block pain signals or allows them to continue on to the brain. Unlike an actual gate, which opens and closes to allow things to pass through, the "gate" in the spinal cord operates by differentiating between the types of fibers carrying pain signals. Pain signals traveling via small nerve fibers are allowed to pass through, while signals sent by large nerve fibers are blocked. Gate control theory is often used to explain phantom or chronic pain.
More Psychology Definitions>> Psychology Dictionary
More Psychology Definitions>> Psychology Dictionary
