Interpolation of illusory pain in the human somatosensory system

Perception. 2012;41(7):878-80. doi: 10.1068/p7019.

Abstract

Three coins are lined up with the middle coin at room temperature and flanking coins cooled down to 4 degrees C. If digits 2 and 4 are placed on the outer coins and digit 3 on the middle coin, the latter also feels cold; a striking example of perceptual filling in of temperature. We show that if digits 2 and 4 are placed on a thermal grill with alternating hot and cold bars, while digit 3 is placed on cardboard, the sensation of pain will also spread to the middle finger.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fingers / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Illusions / psychology*
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Pain Perception / physiology*
  • Somatosensory Cortex / physiology*
  • Temperature