Quantification of stimuli

In the experimental setting where pain or discomfort is elicited, it is imperative that the different types of stimuli used (i.e., chemical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical) be quantified and other important factors be considered: (1) reproducibility of the stimulus, which depends upon its ability to be completely characterized and exactly measured; and (2) control of potential modifying factors winch might influence the pain threshold. Thus, the stimulus must be measurable, reproducible, and behaviorally predictable.