Differences in Sensory Changes between Males and Females in the Side-lying Position for Healthy Science Research

Abstract

This study was performed to investigate the differences in body pressure-related sensory changes between males and females in a side-lying position for physiotherapy research. To analyze body pressure, the Body Pressure Measurement System was used. Body pressure sensors were attached to mattresses beneath the subjects. The level of pain was evaluated using pain score tools before the side-lying position was adopted, as well as at 1, 5, 10, and 15 min after adoption of the side-lying position. Total pain level was also evaluated for specific body points. In analysis of total pain score, the shoulder and pelvis scored significantly higher than other body parts. And, in the gender comparison, the arm showed a significant difference in pain level. Furthermore, this result showed the temporal change in total pain score after maintaining the side-lying position for each body part. Overall, the pain scores increased at 1 minute spent in the side-lying position for every body part except the head. These results suggest that postural changes and properties that change in a time-dependent manner need to be carefully considered when applying physiotherapy in the side-lying position.