Theories of chronic pain. How to proceed

Of the comprehensive theories reviewed, gate control theory provides the most parsimonious, scientifically supported, and testable structure (i.e., one of integration). Although the fully reciprocal structure posited by both operant-behavioral and cognitive-behavioral perspectives is less parsimonious and also problematic empirically without the imposition of further constraints, these theories also are tenable. A procedural plan was presented for bringing the posited network of gate control in comparison with a testable, empirically supported representation of operant-behavioral and cognitive-behavioral perspectives. Execution of this plan would initiate the implicit structural descriptions of theories of chronic pain into an empirical realm that would lead the progression closer to tightening the frameworks for improved conceptualization, measurement, and treatment of chronic pain.