Effect of concurrent quantitative feedback training on intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of grade III mobilization over fourth lumbar spinous process

Postero-anterior mobilization of spine have been found to have quite beneficial effects in various musculoskeletal conditions, yet, the reliability of various parameters of grade, dosage (force, amplitude, acceleration, deceleration, etc) have not been concluded so far. Feedback training has positive impact on motor skill acquisition. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether intra-rater & inter-rater reliability of grade III mobilization over L4 spinous process can be improved secondary to feedback training using pressure algometer?

200 asymptomatic, healthy subjects participated in the study. Two equally qualified & skilled raters were recruited & were provided with four week of feedback training in applying grade III mobilization over L4 spinous process over 200 healthy subjects, by the same mentor. Posts training intra-rater & interrater reliability of grade III mobilization force over L4 spinous process in 193 healthy asymptomatic subjects were calculated.

Excellent intra-rater & high inter-rater reliability values (ICC =.9434* &.8019* respectively, pd” 0.01) of grade III mobilization over L4 spinous process were obtained.

Mobilization procedures are motor skills which require practice to be learnt properly. Feedback training has established positive role in facilitating motor skill acquisitition. Improved values of intra-rater & inter-rater reliability of grade III mobilization over L4 spinous process secondary to feedback training using pressure algometer, obtained in the present study can be explained in consensus with the positive impact of feedback training on acquisitition of motor skills.