AEMCA Practice Exam

What does allodynia refer to?

1. A type of visceral pain

2. Chronic pain out of proportion to injury

3. A specific type of somatic pain

4. A psychological pain response

The correct answer is: Chronic pain out of proportion to injury

Allodynia refers to a condition where a person experiences pain from stimuli that usually do not provoke pain, such as light touch or mild temperature changes. This phenomenon highlights a heightened sensitivity within the nervous system, often seen in chronic pain conditions. The correct answer reflects the essence of allodynia, which can manifest as chronic pain that feels disproportionate to what might be expected from a specific injury or stimulus. This abnormal pain perception is a key indicator of allodynia, distinguishing it from typical pain responses. The other options pertain to different forms of pain or pain experiences. Visceral pain relates specifically to pain originating from the internal organs, while somatic pain refers to pain that arises from the skin, muscles, or skeletal system. On the other hand, a psychological pain response addresses how emotional or psychological factors can influence a person's perception of pain, which is distinct from the definition of allodynia.