Comparison of P4, numerical pain rating scale and pressure pain threshold in patients having chronic low back pain-an observational study

Abstract

BackgroundPain is a multidimensional experience, with low back pain (LBP) being the most common. Numerous pain measures exist to assess pain intensity, though the systemic quantification is a rare clinical practice. P4, numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and pressure pain threshold (PPT) measure pain intensity, which is necessary for its effective management. Objective of the study was to assess and compare pain measured by P4, numerical pain rating scale and pressure pain threshold in LBP patients.MethodologyA prospective observational study was conducted at SBB College of physiotherapy, VS Hospital, Ahmadabad. A convenience sample of (<italic>N</italic>=50) patients, according to inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited. P4: pain intensity measured at four times over the past 2 days and NPRS: pain intensity over last 24 hours was graded subjectively by the patient &amp; PPT was measured over tender point. Level of significance was kept at 5%.ResultsPearson correlation coefficient was used to correlate P4 and PPT, NPRS and PPT. Moderate negative correlation was present between P4 and pressure pain threshold (r = -0.623, p=0.001) and mild negative correlation was present between numerical pain rating scale and pressure pain threshold (r=-0.372, p&lt;0.05) which was found to be statistically significant.P4 had a moderate inverse correlation with pressure pain threshold &amp; numerical pain rating scale had mild inverse correlation with pressure pain threshold which was found to be statistically significant.