The gate-control theory of pain has difficulty explaining:
A) why mild pressure can interfere with severe pain.
B) why distraction can keep us from feeling pain as we usually would.
C) how the phenomenon of phantom pain can occur.
D) how thoughts and feelings can influence our reactions to pain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gate-control theory of pain proposes that pain signals must pass through a gate in the spinal cord that can be closed by non-pain signals, such as those from touch or pressure. However, this theory cannot fully explain the phenomenon of phantom pain, where an individual experiences pain in a limb that has been amputated. In this case, there is no physical input from the missing limb to close the gate, yet the individual still experiences pain.

The Gate-Control Theory of Pain Has Difficulty Explaining