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talking to mom about how surprising i found the effectiveness of the compression socks for my (possible) plantares fasciitis, she introduced the “gate effect”. tldr from a quick search is that competing sensory info can cause reduction in perceived pain, which is why ”compression” stuff helps

could possibly be an avenue of research for me?
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The gate effect in pain management refers to the modulation of pain signals by the central nervous system, specifically the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The gate control theory of pain, proposed by Melzack and Wall in 1965, provides a framework for understanding this phenomenon (Moayedi & Davis, 2013). According to this theory, pain perception is not solely determined by the activation of pain receptors in the periphery, but is also influenced by other factors, such as the activation of non-painful sensory pathways and the individual's cognitive and emotional state (Moayedi & Davis, 2013).

The gate control theory suggests that the transmission of pain signals can be modulated at the level of the spinal cord by a gating mechanism (Moayedi & Davis, 2013). This gating mechanism can either open or close the "gate" to the transmission of pain signals to the brain. When the gate is open, pain signals are transmitted to the brain and pain is perceived. However, when the gate is closed, the transmission of pain signals is inhibited, resulting in a reduction in pain perception (Moayedi & Davis, 2013).

The gate control theory proposes that non-painful sensory input, such as touch or vibration, can activate large-diameter nerve fibers that compete with the small-diameter pain fibers for access to the spinal cord (Moayedi & Davis, 2013). When these large-diameter fibers are activated, they can close the gate and inhibit the transmission of pain signals to the brain. This is why activities such as rubbing or applying pressure to a painful area can provide temporary relief from pain (Apkarian et al., 1994).

In addition to non-painful sensory input, the gate control theory also suggests that cognitive and emotional factors can influence the gating mechanism and modulate pain perception (Moayedi & Davis, 2013). For example, factors such as attention, arousal, and mood can affect the opening or closing of the gate. Positive emotions and distractions can close the gate and reduce pain perception, while negative emotions and increased attention to pain can open the gate and increase pain perception (Apkarian et al., 1994).

The gate control theory has been supported by various studies and has had a significant impact on pain research and management (Moayedi & Davis, 2013). It has provided a framework for understanding the complex nature of pain perception and has led to the development of new approaches to pain management. For example, techniques such as spinal cord stimulation, which involves the electrical modulation of nerve fibers in the spinal cord, have been used to effectively control chronic pain (Vannemreddy & Slavin, 2011).

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the role of the brain in pain perception and modulation. Neuroimaging studies have provided insights into the neural correlates of pain perception and have highlighted the influence of cognitive, emotional, and contextual factors on pain perception (Tracey & Mantyh, 2007). These findings have further expanded our understanding of the gate effect in pain management and have emphasized the importance of a multidimensional approach to pain treatment.

In conclusion, the gate effect in pain management refers to the modulation of pain signals by the central nervous system. The gate control theory of pain provides a framework for understanding this phenomenon and suggests that pain perception is influenced by various factors, including non-painful sensory input, cognitive and emotional factors, and the individual's overall state. This theory has had a significant impact on pain research and management and has led to the development of new approaches to pain treatment. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex mechanisms underlying the gate effect and to develop more effective strategies for pain management.

References:
Apkarian, A., Stea, R., Bolanowski, S. (1994). Heat-induced Pain Diminishes Vibrotactile Perception: a Touch Gate. Somatosensory & Motor Research, 3(11), 259-267. https://doi.org/10.3109/08990229409051393
Moayedi, M. and Davis, K. (2013). Theories Of Pain: From Specificity To Gate Control. Journal of Neurophysiology, 1(109), 5-12. https://doi.org/10.1152/jn.00457.2012
Tracey, I. and Mantyh, P. (2007). The Cerebral Signature For Pain Perception and Its Modulation. Neuron, 3(55), 377-391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2007.07.012
Vannemreddy, P. and Slavin, K. (2011). Spinal Cord Stimulation: Current Applications For Treatment Of Chronic Pain. Anesthesia Essays and Researches, 1(5), 20. https://doi.org/10.4103/0259-1162.84174