When you experience pain, it can sometimes feel overwhelming and leave you unable to function. However, the gate control theory that was developed half a century ago paints a different picture. This clinical theory explores the concepts of pain, widening the treatment options for those who experience chronic pain as well as those in a temporary crisis.
The pain messages you experience come from your central and peripheral nervous systems. The central system involves the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral system involves the nerves that extend into the lumbar spine, torso and the rest of your body.
The gate control pain theory posits that “gates” exist between the site of injury and the brain itself. When open, you feel pain more easily and when closed, the pain signals are lessened or not felt at all. By exploring these concepts, you can begin to take control over your own experiences with pain.
Multiple factors are involved in whether or not the pain gates are open in your body. You will experience greater instances of pain after injury or if you don’t practice good posture and related sound motion. For instance, lifting incorrectly. Those who practice a sedentary lifestyle as well as chronic drug abusers are also more likely to have open pain gates.
In addition to these sensory factors, your emotional makeup and thinking processes are influential in how much pain you receive. For instance, focusing on the pain or having negative thoughts racing through your head will exacerbate the symptoms. Likewise, if you are stressed out, depressed, angry or anxiety-ridden, you will have more pain.
While it might seem like these things are sometimes out of your control, the fact is that you can learn to address the relevant factors in your pain to close these gates. Quit using drugs and start exercising more often. Learn appropriate posture techniques and how to hold your body appropriately throughout the day.
As for your thoughts, it might seem challenging at first not to think about the pain. However, one aspect of chronic pain management involves training your mind to ignore these continuous signals. Over time, you will be less aware of acute ongoing pains.
The emotional component is not something to be skipped over lightly. By working on your emotional health, your body and mind will benefit. Start reading positive and uplifting messages from mentors who focus on healthy attitudes.
Other ways to boost your emotional health in the gate control theory include taking a stress management course and learning how to meditate. Even five minutes each day of meditation can have a profound impact on your emotional wellness.
Although there is still much to learn about the gate control pain theory and how it works in the body, you don’t have to wait to stat including these techniques to treat your pains. Doing so will provide you the relief you need without dependence on pharmaceuticals and surgical intervention. Not only will you have less pain, you will be happier and more relaxed as a result of your efforts!
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