CHRONIC PAIN - ELECTROMECHANICAL RECORDING DEVICE FOR MEASURING PATIENTS ACTIVITY PATTERNS

  • 1 January 1985
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 66  (2) , 75-79
Abstract
The development and use of automated recording devices as alternatives to self-report measures of activity patterns in chronic pain patients have been recommended. An electromechanical device is described that can be used to measure downtime or uptime in chronic pain patients. This monitor has several advantages over Hg tilt-switch devices including freedom from plane dependence, resistance of artifact associated with rapid or vigorous movement, and the flexibility to permit conceptualization of sitting time as either uptime or downtime, depending upon placement of the position switch. The monitor consists of a miniature electronic timer, a switching delay circuit and battery pack, an electromechanical position switch, a belt with carrying cases and a battery recharger. The device has high reliability (agreement coefficients of 1.0) and concurrent validity (r = 0.99) for both downtime and uptime assessments. Research applications and clinical use of this device are discussed as well as directions for the further development of automated recording devices.