Large nerve fibers (which carry touch or vibration signals) "close" the gate by activating inhibitory neurons, which blocks the pain signals from passing through. Applications of the "Pain Gate"
This theory explains why rubbing a stubbed toe or using a helps reduce pain. The physical stimulation of large fibers "crowds out" the pain signals at the spinal gate. paingate ddsc 018
The "Gate" is a mechanism in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. It modulates sensory input before it is perceived as pain by the brain. Large nerve fibers (which carry touch or vibration