Louise Potter, Christopher McCarthy and Jacqueline Oldham
The objective of this study was to analyse the effectiveness of using algometry to quantify pressure pain thrshold (PPT). Intra-rater PPT assessment by algometry over the belly of four pairs of spinal muscles (iliocostalis, multifidus, gluteus maximus and trapezius) in a healthy sample was analysed. Assessments revealed good within-session reliability and good between-session reliability, with a moderate measurement error and no systematic difference within-session or between-sessions. The authors conclude that PPT assessment by algometry is a reliable measure of a subject's pain. This study provides further validity to the use of this measure as a suitable, convenient method of monitoring treatment effects.
International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, Volume 9, Issue 4,