Water temperature during the cold pressor test: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Physiology
• Pain Research

Background:

• The cold pressor test (CPT) is widely used to induce pain and stress.
• Water temperature significantly influences CPT outcomes like pain tolerance.
• Inconsistent CPT protocols, particularly temperature variations, have been noted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of the cold pressor test (CPT) in adults.
• To investigate the impact of water temperature and other methodological factors on CPT outcomes.
• To identify inconsistencies in CPT protocol reporting and implementation.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review of 331 included trials using the CPT in adults.
• Analysis of reported water temperatures, pain measurement methods, water circulation, immersion time, and immersed limb.
• Assessment of the adequacy and precision of methodological reporting.

Main Results:

• The most common CPT water temperature was 1°C (33.8°F).
• While water temperature reporting was adequate (93%), precise ranges were reported in only 27% of trials.
• Pain tolerance was the predominant outcome (78%), but methodological factors like water circulation and awareness of immersion limits were inconsistently reported.

Conclusions:

• Significant inconsistencies exist in the implementation and reporting of methodological factors in CPT studies.
• Standardization of water temperature, ideally 1°C (33.8°F), is recommended for future CPT research, especially for pain tolerance studies.
• Precise temperature control, continuous water circulation, and comprehensive protocol reporting are essential for reliable CPT results.