Discrimination of two-point touch sense for the upper and lower extremity based on body mass index in young adults: an observational study

Riyas Basheer K. B.; Anusree Suresh; Aiswarya P. R.; Subhashchandra Rai

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20253161

Authors

Riyas Basheer K. B. Tejasvini Physiotherapy College, Kudupu, Mangalore, Karnataka, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2842-154X
Anusree Suresh Tejasvini Physiotherapy College, Kudupu, Mangalore, Karnataka, India https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6018-9599
Aiswarya P. R. Tejasvini Physiotherapy College, Kudupu, Mangalore, Karnataka, India https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8635-6401
Subhashchandra Rai Tejasvini Physiotherapy College, Kudupu, Mangalore, Karnataka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20253161

Keywords:

BMI, Aesthesiometer, Upper extremity, Two-point discrimination, Tactile sensation, Lower extremity, Normative values, Sensory perception

Abstract

Background: To establish normative values for two-point discrimination (TPD) across 11 dermatome regions in the upper and lower limbs while examining the correlation between TPD and body mass index (BMI) and the influence of gender-based variations on sensory perception.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study conducted with 200 healthy participants (100 males, 100 females) to measure TPD thresholds and analyse correlations with BMI. This study was carried out in a controlled clinical setting, ensuring minimal environmental interference in sensory assessment. Participants were tested in quiet, temperature-controlled conditions to maintain reliability. Normative values for TPD in upper and lower limb dermatome regions, Correlation between TPD and BMI assessed using Karl Pearson’s correlation test. Gender-based correlation differences evaluated using Karl Pearson’s correlation test.

Results: A statistically significant positive correlation (p<0.05) was observed between TPD and BMI, indicating higher BMI is associated with increased TPD values across multiple dermatome regions. No significant differences (p>0.05) in TPD were found between males and females, suggesting BMI influences sensory perception similarly across genders. Regional variations in TPD were noted, emphasizing differences in tactile acuity across limb areas.

Conclusions: This study successfully established reference values for TPD, providing critical insights into sensory perception variations based on BMI. The findings challenge previous assumptions by confirming BMI as a significant factor in tactile sensitivity. Standardized testing protocols are recommended for clinical applications and future research in neurophysiology and rehabilitation.

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Author Biography

Riyas Basheer K. B., Tejasvini Physiotherapy College, Kudupu, Mangalore, Karnataka, India

Vice Principal & Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy

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