Correlation between tactile acuity, pain intensity, and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to verify the correlation between tactile acuity, intensity of pain at rest, and movement and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study composed of two groups: individuals with chronic neck pain and individuals without neck pain. Evaluations were performed using the Numerical Rating Pain Scale at rest and movement, Neck Disability Index, and two-point discrimination test. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 100 volunteers, 50 in each group. The groups did not show significant differences (p>0.05) in personal characteristics. It was observed that volunteers with cervical pain presented alterations in tactile care, with a significant and clinical increase in the perceived distance (Median 6.66; 95%CI 6.29-7.02; Cohen's d 7.22; 95%CI 6.15-8.30), and yet, positive, moderate, and significant correlation between two-point discrimination test, intensity of pain at rest and movement, and neck disability index (r=0.778-0.789, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Tactile acuity is associated with pain intensity at rest and movement and functional capacity in individuals with chronic neck pain.