How type and number of training sessions influence the reliability of palpation

Publication date: Available online 29 July 2017
Source:Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Author(s): Carolina Lavazza, Valeria Milano, Alessandra Abenavoli, Alberto Maggiani
IntroductionAccurate and reliable palpation is needed to identify anatomical landmarks as well as to assess motion and dysfunctions. Although different trials suggested that training might increase reliability of palpation, the poor dependability of the examined tests may show the need to review the teaching methods to improve palpatory accuracy.The aims of this study were:Methods82 examiners with different years of experience were enrolled from AIMO institute. Two different type of training sessions were performed (individual and group training). A total of 5 training sessions were performed during 5 weeks and 5 different models with a similar BMI were used.A uni-variated statistical analysis was used to evaluate the main effect of type and number of trainings, a multi-variated analysis was used to verify cross-effects.ResultsOverall results show moderate reliability for the correct detection of the position of the heel lift (Random probability being 33%, GT = 58.6% and SIPS = 57.1%, both P-value < 0.001).No difference was shown between the types of training (p-value GT = 0.503, p-value PSIS = 1) and no overall improvement was shown after the first training (P-value(GT) = 0.25, P-value(PSIS) = 0.96). The professional group improved the reliability during the training sessions starting from substantial reliability and ended with an almost perfect reliability (P-value GT = 0.0029, P-Value PSIS<0.001). Whereas the 3rd 4th and 5th showed a decreased performance.ConclusionsType of training sessions seems not to influence reliability of palpations. The improvement of reliability during the training sessions seems to be related to the experience of examiners which plays an important role in reliability and the learning experience.



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