Sensitization (1) When intense, repeated or prolonged stimuli are applied if tissue is damaged or if inflammation is present The threshold for activating primary afferent nociceptors is lowed and the frequency of firing is higher for all stimulus intensities. This process is called sensitization Deep tissues are relatively insensitive to noxious mechanical or thermal stimuli When inflammation exist, deep tissues become exquisitely sensitive to mechanical stimulationSensitization (1) • When intense, repeated or prolonged stimuli are applied if tissue is damaged or if inflammation is present • The threshold for activating primary afferent nociceptors is lowed and the frequency of firing is higher for all stimulus intensities. This process is called sensitization. •Deep tissues are relatively insensitive to noxious mechanical or thermal stimuli • When inflammation exist, deep tissues become exquisitely sensitive to mechanical stimulation