Reliability of an algometry device for pain pressure threshold evaluation in athletes: A pilot study

The pain pressure threshold is a metric used in both rehabilitation and diagnostic settings for various applications. Typically, this threshold is determined using a handheld dynamometer or an analog/digital algometer, which measures sensitivity to the onset of pain. However, human administration of pressure is prone to errors due to variations in the rate of force application, angle of application, and human responsiveness. In this study, we aimed to develop a prototype device that automates pressure applications. This device can apply pressure at different rates and angles, allowing participants to cease pressure application autonomously. The device was tested on the rectus femoris of 41 participants (30 males and 11 females), and the rate of force application was set to 0.05 m/s at a 90-degree angle. The device's reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation (ICC), and the results demonstrated high reliability (ICC = 0.91) for both males and females with a standard error of measurement of 4.34. Statistical analysis revealed that males exhibited a significantly higher pain pressure threshold than females. This study confirms the reliability of the prototype device in measuring pain pressure threshold with minimal examiner intervention. Additionally, the higher pain pressure threshold of males, suggests lower sensitivity to pressure pain compared to females.