Reliability of measurement using Image J for reach distance and movement angles in the functional reach test

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of reach distance and movement angle analyses using Image J. [Participants and Methods] Thirtyeight healthy young males performed the functional reach test (FRT) twice, and their reach movements were recorded using a digital video camera. Image J was used to combine the digital photographs taken at the start position and maximum reach and to measure each movement. The measurements recorded were the movement distance of the third metacarpal bone (reach distance), anterior-superior iliac spine, and trochanter major, and the angles recorded were the acromion-malleolus lateralis, acromion-trochanter major, and trochanter major-malleolus lateralis. The reliability of all the measurements was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Bland-Altman plots, and MDCs. [Results] The ICCs (1, 1) were >0.80 for all the outcomes. The Bland-Altman analysis revealed no systematic bias in any outcome. The MDC of reach distance was 18.3 mm. [Conclusion] Measurement using Image J for reach distance and movement angles in the FRT showed acceptable high test-retest reliability. Measurement of the FRT and the MDC calculated in this study could be used as a reference for further research.

The effect of a telehealth exercise intervention on balance in adults with Down syndrome

“…The secondary outcomes for leg strength (30secCT and 5xSTS) also showed significant improvements with medium effect sizes (Table 3). Comparison of individual participant scores to thresholds of minimal detectable change show that 12 out of 16 (75%) participants increased their FRT distance by 1.83 cm or more, with the greatest increase being 12 cm (Suzuki et al, 2021). Eleven out of 17 (65%) participants increased their FICSIT‐4 score by 1.52 points or higher, with the greatest increase being 19 points (Blankevoort et al, 2010).…”

“…This test has demonstrated great reliability and validity with populations demonstrating similar balance deficits (Schenkman et al, 1997; Weiner et al, 1992), and excellent feasibility and reliability in adults with intellectual disabilities (Blomqvist et al, 2012; Enkelaar et al, 2013). The minimal detectable change in FRT distance in the healthy young males was 1.83 cm (Suzuki et al, 2021).…”

Immediate effects of verbal instructions with internal focus of attention and external focus of attention on forward reach movement while standing

“…The methods for measurement of reach distance and movement angles in the FRT were based on a previous study 28 ) . All participants wore tight-fitting elasticated clothes, and surface reflective markers were attached over the head of the third metacarpal bone, acromion, anterior superior iliac spine, trochanter major, and malleolus lateralis on the right side.…”