What effect does high-frequency electrical stimulation have on pain signals?

High-frequency electrical stimulation is known for its ability to block the transmission of pain signals. This is largely based on the gate control theory of pain, which posits that non-painful input can close the "gates" to painful input, thereby preventing pain perception from reaching the brain. When high-frequency electrical stimulation is applied, it activates large-diameter nerve fibers, which can inhibit the activity of smaller fibers that carry pain signals. This modulation of pain signaling effectively reduces the perception of pain by interfering with the pathways that transmit these sensations, leading to analgesic effects.

In contrast, enhancing pain perception or increasing sensitivity to pain would not align with the established uses of high-frequency electrical stimulation, which is primarily employed for pain relief. Similarly, stating that it has no effect on pain perception contradicts the evidence supporting the effectiveness of this modality in clinical practice.