Pressure pain in multiple sclerosis patients and in healthy subjects

The purpose of this study was to compare pressure pain threshold (PPT) and tolerance (PPTO) in subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy control. PPT and PPTO in different stages of disease were also investigated. This study included 31 subjects with definite MS and 31 healthy subjects matched per age and gender. The patients were divided into 3 subgroups according to the Expanded Disability Status Scale scores: between 1 and 3.5: early stage; between 4 and 6: mild stage; 6.5 and above: late stage. Our results have shown that PPT and PPTO tested on masseter muscle, bicipital tendon, thenar areas, middle finger tip and thigh of both sides were significantly higher in MS patients than in control. However, no significant differences were found comparing different stages of M.S. A defective pain perception should be taken into consideration in planning rehabilitation programs for MS patients of which patients and caregiver should be informed.