What is allodynia?
Allodynia is defined as pain from a stimulus that wouldn’t normally provoke pain. People who experience nerve pain are very sensitive to touch. For example, someone with this condition could feel pain just by putting on a pair of pants. There are three different types of allodynia:
- Thermal: Thermal allodynia refers to when someone experiences pain from mild hot or cold temperatures. While someone may feel discomfort when it’s freezing or too hot, someone with allodynia feels pain when there’s a slight change in the temperature.
- Mechanical: This type of allodynia occurs when there’s a slight movement across the skin, such as fabric touching skin.
- Tactile: This occurs when light pressure is applied to the skin and is also referred to as static allodynia. Someone tapping you on the shoulder doesn’t usually cause pain. Someone with tactile allodynia would find it painful.
Examples of allodynia
- A burning or stinging sensation when brushing or combing hair
- Pain while wearing clothing that is too tight, has tags, stitching or rough textures
- Pain from shaving one’s face
- Pain with light touch, such as a gentle pat on the back or a hug
- Pain from the pressure of a seatbelt or a hug
- Pain from exposure to heat, such as taking a warm shower or being in a warm environment
- Sharp and intense pain from exposure to cold weather or cold water from a bath or shower
- Pain from a slight breeze or draft of air
- Pain from light pressure from a massage or acupuncture needle
- Pain from a firm handshake
Conclusion
In conclusion, allodynia is a common symptom of peripheral neuropathy that can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. From brushing hair to wearing clothing, exposure to heat or cold, and even the gentle touch of a loved one, allodynia can make daily activities difficult and painful.
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Sources
- “What Is Allodynia?”. WinSanTor
- “Fibromyalgia and Tactile Allodynia”. Verywell Health
- “Allodynia: When Touch Hurts But Shouldn’t | AMF”. American Migraine Foundation
FAQs
What is allodynia?
Allodynia is defined as pain from a stimulus that wouldn’t normally provoke pain. People who experience nerve pain are very sensitive to touch. For example, someone with this condition could feel pain just by putting on a pair of pants.
What are the three types of allodynia?
Thermal: Thermal allodynia refers to when someone experiences pain from mild hot or cold temperatures. While someone may feel discomfort when it’s freezing or too hot, someone with allodynia feels pain when there’s a slight change in the temperature.
Mechanical: This type of allodynia occurs when there’s a slight movement across the skin, such as fabric touching skin.
Tactile: This occurs when light pressure is applied to the skin and is also referred to as static allodynia. Someone tapping you on the shoulder doesn’t usually cause pain. Someone with tactile allodynia would find it painful.
What are examples of allodynia?
A burning or stinging sensation when brushing or combing hair
Pain while wearing clothing that is too tight, has tags, stitching or rough textures
Pain from shaving one's face
Pain with light touch, such as a gentle pat on the back or a hug
Pain from the pressure of a seatbelt or a hug
Pain from exposure to heat, such as taking a warm shower or being in a warm environment
Sharp and intense pain from exposure to cold weather or cold water from a bath or shower
Pain from a slight breeze or draft of air
Pain from light pressure from a massage or acupuncture needle
Pain from a firm handshake
