The preferred treatment for allodynia, which is pain caused by stimuli that are normally not painful (such as light touch), is anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin.

- Allodynia is a common symptom of neuropathic pain, often resulting from nerve injury or dysfunction.
- It reflects abnormal neuronal excitability and central sensitization. Traditional analgesics like NSAIDs or opioids are generally less effective in managing neuropathic pain conditions, including allodynia.

- Anticonvulsants such as pregabalin and gabapentin act by modulating calcium channels and reducing neuronal excitability.
- They have been shown to provide significant relief in neuropathic pain syndromes with allodynia.

While local anesthetic infiltration can be useful in some focal neuropathic pain conditions, it is not a systemic or long-term solution for generalized allodynia.

Key points:
- Allodynia = pain from normally non-painful stimuli due to nerve sensitization.
- Neuropathic pain responds better to anticonvulsants (pregabalin) than to NSAIDs or opioids.
- Pregabalin works by reducing neuronal hyperexcitability.
- NSAIDs primarily act on inflammatory pain and are less effective in neuropathic conditions.
- Opioids have limited efficacy and risk of dependence.
- Local anesthetics can provide temporary relief but are not preferred systemic treatment.

Reference: *Neurology and Neurosurgery Illustrated*, 4th Edition, Chapter: Pain and Its Management / Page 182