Development of a Novel Translational Model of Vibration Injury to the Spine to Study Acute Injury in Vivo
Abstract
There is currently little mechanistic data defining the relationship between whole body or spine vibration, physiology and pain. Considering that pain is tremendous problem, a novel model platform for studying how vibration produces chronic pain can provide insight into those exposures with high risk. We hypothesized that a model of vibration and/or jolt induced pain could be produced in the rat. Studies already completed support this hypothesis. Among the major findings is the fact that even 30 minutes of daily vibration for only 7 days is sufficient to induce significant widespread pain that is sustained following the termination of vibration. Another finding is that a host of biochemical changes are associated with pain and some are sensitive to frequency of vibration. Modifications in the cervical disc appear to be the most significant in pilot studies to date. Analysis of transmissibility demonstrates the resonant frequency of the rat spine to be 8Hz, suggesting that the pain response to vibration at that frequency may be even more robust. These findings have tremendous implications for both sub-failure spinal injury and pain. They also establish a strong foundation for the remaining studies including additional exposures and defining the time course of physiological responses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA580183
Entities
People
- Beth A. Winkelstein
Organizations
- University of Pennsylvania