The reliability of lumbar motion palpation.
OBJECTIVE
This review surveys the literature regarding reliability studies of lumbar motion palpation.


METHODS
Using the indexing terms motion palpation lumbar spine and palpation, the following English language databases were surveyed: a) Medline, including back file; b) Embase; c) Cinahl; and d) Epic. Additionally, a manual search of the Chiropractic Research Archives Collection and JMPT was performed and researchers at Western States Chiropractic College were consulted. Pertinent references cited in bibliographies of retrieved papers were included if contributory.


METHODS
Studies pertaining to intra- and interexaminer reliability of lumbar motion palpation were reviewed.


METHODS
Statistical analysis, subject selection, method of palpation and sources of error are discussed.


RESULTS
Multiple variations were noted in type of palpation, subjects examined, statistical analysis and experience of examiners.


CONCLUSIONS
To date, most studies have demonstrated marginal to poor interexaminer reliability, while good to moderate intrarater reliability has generally been reported.
Panzer
D M
DM
Western States Chiropractic College, Portland, Oregon 97230.
D001416:Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000502:physiology*; D009068:Movement; D015588:Observer Variation; D010173:Palpation; D015203:Reproducibility of Results