Reliability and criterion validity of handheld dynamometry for measuring trunk muscle strength in people with and without chronic non-specific low back pain

Althobaiti, Shouq; Falla, Deborah

doi:10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102799

Cited by 1 publication

(2 citation statements)

References 47 publications

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Previous studies have examined the reliability of isometric trunk muscle strength in people with and without low back pain using handheld [34] or isokinetic dynamometry [29]. Isokinetic dynamometers stand as the gold standard for testing trunk flexion and extension in this population (CV = 5 to 10%) [35] with handheld dynamometers remaining insufficient to achieve a similar accuracy [34]. Our novel approach using elastic bands provides a practical measure of trunk muscles' stability comparable to isokinetic dynamometers in terms of reliability (CV < 10%), particularly when recording force values relative to body mass.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Using Resistance-Band Tests to Evaluate Trunk Muscle Strength in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Test–Retest Reliability Study

Franco-López,

Durkalec-Michalski,

Díaz-Morón

et al. 2024

Sensors

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Exercise is a front-line intervention to increase functional capacity and reduce pain and disability in people with low strength levels or disorders. However, there is a lack of validated field-based tests to check the initial status and, more importantly, to control the process and make tailored adjustments in load, intensity, and recovery. We aimed to determine the test–retest reliability of a submaximal, resistance-band test to evaluate the strength of the trunk stability muscles using a portable force sensor in middle-aged adults (48 ± 13 years) with medically diagnosed chronic low back pain and healthy peers (n = 35). Participants completed two submaximal progressive tests of two resistance-band exercises (unilateral row and Pallof press), consisting of 5 s maintained contraction, progressively increasing the load. The test stopped when deviation from the initial position by compensation movements occurred. Trunk muscle strength (CORE muscles) was monitored in real time using a portable force sensor (strain gauge). Results revealed that both tests were highly reliable (intra-class correlation [ICC] > 0.901) and presented low errors and coefficients of variation (CV) in both groups. In particular, people with low back pain had errors of 14–19 N (CV = 9–12%) in the unilateral row test and 13–19 N (CV = 8–12%) in the Pallof press. No discomfort or pain was reported during or after the tests. These two easy-to-use and technology-based tests result in a reliable and objective screening tool to evaluate the strength and trunk stability in middle-aged adults with chronic low back pain, considering an error of measurement < 20 N. This contribution may have an impact on improving the individualization and control of rehabilitation or physical training in people with lumbar injuries or disorders.

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