title: Learning Curves Observed in Establishing Targeted Rate of Force Application in Pressure Pain Algometry.
abstract: Purpose:To determine whether learning curves can be observed with deliberate practice when the goal is to apply a consistent rate of force at 5 N/second during pressure pain threshold (PPT) testing in healthy volunteers.Methods:In this prospective study, 17 clinician participants completed PPT targeted rate-of-application testing with healthy volunteers using three different feedback paradigms. The resultant performances of ramp rate during 36 trials were plotted on a graph and examined to determine whether learning curves were observed.Results:Clinicians were not consistent in the rate of force applied. None demonstrated a learning curve over the course of 36 trials and three testing paradigms.Conclusion:The results of this study indicate that applying a consistent 5 N/second of force is difficult for practising clinicians. The lack of learning curves observed suggests that educational strategies for clinicians using PPT may need to change.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois Hospital and Health Science Systems, Chicago.
authors.forename: Alicia J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Emerson Kavchak
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois Hospital and Health Science Systems, Chicago.
authors.forename: Josiah D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Sault
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences, Governor's State University, University Park, Ill.
authors.forename: Ann
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Vendrely
keywords: hyperalgesia; learning curve; pain measurement; pain perception; psychomotor performance