Dorsal column stimulation does not inhibit segmental nociceptive reflexes of hind limbs

Stimulation of the dorsal columns has been shown to inhibit many indices of nociception. We report here that dorsal column stimulation does not inhibit two such nociceptive reflexes in the decerebrate cat: the flexion and the crossed extension reflex. In fact, such stimulation typically facilitates these reflexes. These findings suggest that the use of segmental nociceptive reflexes as models of pain perception may not be wholly appropriate.