OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of the static force of a bone vibrator on the results of bone conduction (BC) threshold measurements and comfort. DESIGN: BC thresholds were determined for 40 participants using the standardized P-3333 headband and a leather adjustable headstrap with variable static forces (2.4, 3.4, 4.4, 5.4 N). Comfort ratings were examined using a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Mean BC thresholds were within ± 2 dB across all conditions; differences may be considered small enough to be clinically insignificant. Participants experienced significantly greater discomfort with the P-3333 versus the adjustable headstrap. The mean static force of the P-3333 varied considerably and was higher in situ than the calibration standard of 5.4 N. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that future revisions of relevant international and national standards should address the use of an adjustable headstrap and a static force less than 5.4 N.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of the static force of a bone vibrator on the results of bone conduction (BC) threshold measurements and comfort. DESIGN: BC thresholds were determined for 40 participants using the standardized P-3333 headband and a leather adjustable headstrap with variable static forces (2.4, 3.4, 4.4, 5.4 N). Comfort ratings were examined using a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Mean BC thresholds were within ± 2 dB across all conditions; differences may be considered small enough to be clinically insignificant. Participants experienced significantly greater discomfort with the P-3333 versus the adjustable headstrap. The mean static force of the P-3333 varied considerably and was higher in situ than the calibration standard of 5.4 N. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that future revisions of relevant international and national standards should address the use of an adjustable headstrap and a static force less than 5.4 N.