Correlation between tactile acuity, pain intensity, and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain

ABSTRACT

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to verify the correlation between tactile acuity, intensity of pain at rest, and movement and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study composed of two groups individuals with chronic neck pain and individuals without neck pain. Evaluations were performed using the Numerical Rating Pain Scale at rest and movement, Neck Disability Index, and two-point discrimination test. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 100 volunteers, 50 in each group. The groups did not show significant differences (p>0.05) in personal characteristics. It was observed that volunteers with cervical pain presented alterations in tactile care, with a significant and clinical increase in the perceived distance (Median 6.66; 95%CI 6.29-7.02; Cohen's d 7.22; 95%CI 6.15-8.30), and yet, positive, moderate, and significant correlation between two-point discrimination test, intensity of pain at rest and movement, and neck disability index (r=0.778-0.789, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Tactile acuity is associated with pain intensity at rest and movement and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain.