Reliability and Validity of Accelerometry Methods Used to Assess Facet Joint Crepitus and Cavitation

• DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.31.1_supplement.lb22
• Publication Date: 2023-11-26T17:36:45Z
• Authors: Gregory D Cramer; Matthew Budavich; Preetam Bora; Terry Koo; Dana Madigan; Amanda Braden; Kim Ross

Objective Novel accelerometry methods have been developed to assess and localize vibrations from zygapophyseal (Z) joint audible sounds (crepitus cavitations) during normal lumbar motion side‐posture spinal manipulation. This study assessed the reliability validity of methods. Methods A spine was embedded in silicone prone position. Before pouring silicone, tunnels were created posterior aspect Z joints surface. Once phantom completed, a specialized mechanical device lowered into each tunnel used strike with force approximately 7 N simulate crepitus, 67 cavitation (2 experiments). Ten accelerometers applied previously pattern specific origin vibrations. For experiment cavitation), struck on three different passes (n=30) while recordings made. The order strikes randomized twice for use two observation sessions. Two observers blinded strikes, results one another, their previous results, analyzed oscilloscope separate occasions, separated by minimum 2 hours, identify which originated. Intra‐ inter‐observer (actual vs. observer determination recordings) calculated. Results Crepitus, Observer 1: Test (Run) 1 = 0.93; 0.96; intra‐observer (Test 2) 2: 0.89; interobserver (Observer 0.94. Cavitation, 1.00; 1.00. Conclusions as tested highly controlled environment almost perfect agreement both simulated crepitus cavitation. should be further refined human subjec ts . Support or Funding Information NIH/NCCIH Grant # 3R01AT000123‐06S2