Allodynia is pain that is caused by stimulus that does not usually produce a pain response in the body.

Allodynia is the result of a process called central sensitization, where cells in the central nervous system are unusually excitable. There are several types of allodynia, including touch allodynia, location allodynia and temperature allodynia.

The exact cause of allodynia is difficult to determine, but it has been linked to conditions including migraines, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome and central pain syndrome.

To diagnosis this condition, a physician may conduct a medical history, physical examination and pain assessment. Sensory testing, when objects are used to stimulate the skin, may be performed.

Treatment of allodynia may consist of treating the underlying condition. Headache medications are available to treat migraines. Medications are sometimes used to treat central pain syndrome and fibromyalgia, although fibromyalgia may also be treated with pain management methods including exercise therapy, relaxation techniques and educational programs.  Complex regional pain syndrome can be treated with injection therapy, physical therapy and anti-seizure medicines.