Gastroenterology
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The spinal nociceptive RIII reflex, an exteroceptive cutaneous-muscular flexion reflex, is powerfully and specifically inhibited by painful heterotopic somatic stimuli. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of nonpainful and painful visceral stimuli on this reflex. ⋯ Gastric distention produces volume-dependent inhibition of the somatic RIII reflex in humans. This model may provide an interesting tool for objective and quantitative evaluation of normal and disturbed visceral sensations in humans.