[Acupuncture and pain mechanisms (author's transl)]

(Akupunktur and Schmerzbeeinflussung)

Full Abstract

Three modulating mechanisms of the "gate-control theory" provide a plausible explanation of how acupuncture analgesia works. In particular, the inhibitory effects of the brainstem reticular formation on the transmission of pain signals in the spinal cord or at higher ttransmission levels seems to provide a powerful explanatory concept. Intense stimulation through acupuncture needles could activate this inhibitory brainstem system, thereby closing the gate to pain signals.

Author information

Author/s: Melzack, R (R);

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: English Abstract; Journal Article; Review

Journal: Der Anaesthesist (Anaesthesist), published in GERMANY, WEST. (Language: ger)

Reference: 1976-May; vol 25 (issue 5) : pp 204-7

Dates: Created 1976/10/20; Completed 1976/10/20; Revised 2006/11/15;

PMID: 183560, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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