The anteroposterior dimensions of the underlying
paraspinal masses were compared for sites in the PVG
identified as being abnormal to palpation and tender
or normal and non-tender. No differences were detected
in the thickness of these muscles. In young, mostly
asymptomatic subjects, abnormal tissue texture in the
PVG detected with palpation is likely to be produced by
factors other than differences in underlying paraspinal
muscle thickness.