How Do You Spell PALLESTHESIA?

Pronunciation: [pˌalɪsθˈiːzi͡ə] (IPA)

Pallesthesia is a medical term used to describe the ability to perceive vibrations. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /pæləsˈθiʒə/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The letter "a" in the first and third syllables is pronounced as a short "a" sound, while the second syllable contains a long "e" sound. The letter "s" in the third syllable is pronounced as a "z" sound. This word is commonly used in neurological examinations to assess sensory functions.

PALLESTHESIA Meaning and Definition

  1. Pallesthesia is a term used in psychology and neurology to describe the perception or awareness of vibration or oscillatory movement. It refers to the ability to detect and interpret vibrations or oscillations on or within the body. This sensory experience is typically achieved through the use of specialized instruments or tools that generate controlled vibrations or oscillations.

    In the field of neurology, pallesthesia is often used in diagnostic testing to assess sensory perception and evaluate the function of the peripheral nervous system. A common test involves placing a vibrating instrument, known as a tuning fork, on specific body parts to determine the individual's ability to perceive and localize the vibration.

    Pallesthesia is believed to be mediated by sensory receptors called mechanoreceptors, which are present in various tissues and organs throughout the body. These receptors respond to mechanical stimuli, such as pressure and vibration, and transmit signals to the brain for interpretation.

    Impairments in pallesthesia can occur due to various conditions, including nerve damage, neurological disorders, or circulation problems. These impairments can result in reduced sensitivity to vibration or the inability to accurately discriminate between different levels or frequencies of vibration.

    Overall, pallesthesia plays a crucial role in understanding and assessing the human sensory system, particularly in relation to the perception of vibrations and oscillatory movements.

  2. A peculiar vibrating sensation, such as is felt when the foot of a tuningfork in vibration is placed over subcutaneous bony surfaces.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PALLESTHESIA

Etymology of PALLESTHESIA

The word "pallesthesia" is derived from the Greek roots "pallo" meaning "to vibrate" or "to shake", and "aisthēsis" meaning "sensation" or "perception". Therefore, "pallesthesia" essentially means "vibrating sensation" or "perceived vibration". This term is typically used in the medical field to refer to the subjective perception of vibration or a vibrating sensation.