RESEARCH ON RESPONSE TO PAIN
Abstract
A modification on the Hardy-Wolff-Gooddell method of stimulation by thermal radiation was used. Thresholds of pain sensation were obtained in the usual manner but response was measured, not only by the judgment of subjects, but by the reactions in a group of physiological variables as well; these included EEG, EKG, PGR and change in respiration. Threshold values obtained in terms of skin temperatures at stimulus site after irradiation were higher (47.3 - 48.6 C) than those reported in most of the previous investigations. Plotting magnitude of responses against physical intensity of stimulus for pain and non-pain categories reveals that intensity and duration of reactions in pain is not mainly determined by physical intensity of stimulus but the determinant is presumably to be found in central factors within the subject himself. Implications of the findings for the pain experience in the true life situation are discussed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0276719
Entities
People
- A.e. Mckenna
- J. Colle
Organizations
- UCLouvain