Vibration testing: A pilot study investigating the intra-tester reliability of the Vibrameter for the Median and Ulnar nerves

The measurement of vibration thresholds (VTs) is a sensitive test for identifying and monitoring neuropathies. Such a test needs established reliability. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the intra-tester reliability of VT measurements of the Median and Ulnar nerves in asymptomatic participants.A double blinded repeated measures study was carried out. The VTs of the Median and Ulnar nerves were measured on two occasions with seven days between measurements. Participants were trained in identifying the sensation before commencing measurement. 22 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited.Intra-rater reliability was analysed used the intra-class correlation. The median nerve showed excellent reliability (ICC = .922; standard error of the mean = .0225 μm; ‘true’ SEM = .045 μm; smallest real difference = .062 μm). Ulnar nerve reliability was ‘substantial’ (ICC = .632; standard error of the mean = .0225 μm; ‘true’ SEM = .055 μm; smallest real difference = .085 μm).The VT measurements showed excellent to substantial reliability. The Vibrameter has the potential for excellent reliability providing manual therapists practice the technique of using it. It could usefully be considered by manual therapists to support their practice.