The Pain and Strength study

Archived Expires 06 May, 2015 Unitec Osteopathy
This study is not currently open to accept applicants.
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This research study aims to investigate how mild knee pain affects strength of the thigh muscles.

It has been long known that muscle are weaker when they are in pain, however, we only know half the picture. Muscles usually shorten when they contract, and pull the bone towards the muscle. However, when the weight is too heavy, or when we lower our selves down slowly, the muscles lengthen while contraction. This latter contraction type (eccentric) is of particular interest as it is believed to be of less volitional control, yet has not been completely explored. The finding of this research may assist in informing rehabilitation strategies for individuals with chronic injury or pain.

Participants will be required to attend 2 one-hour sessions at AUT’s Akoranga campus, and will be compensated with $20 petrol vouchers . 

Sessions involve strength tests and tasks that involve attempting to maintain a mild effort for short duration. Participants will also receive a small harmless injection to the knee to induce a short and mild bout of knee pain. Pain should last less that 10 minutes

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This study is open to and in aged 18 to 60
Healthy volunteers included

Inclusion criteria

  • Age Between 18-60
  • Speaks and writes English
  • Normal lower limb function

Exclusion criteria

  • Previous significant trauma to lower limbs and/or trunk with current symptoms
  • Any diagnosed neurological disorders
  • Use of pain medications on the day or day prior to testing
  • Pain (2/10 or greater)anywhere in body on the day of testing
  • Elevated Pain Catastrophising as determined by the PCS (>25% overall score or maximum score for an individual items)
  • Any diagnosed spinal disorders