Reliability of the scapular dyskinesis test yes-no classification in asymptomatic individuals between students and expert physical therapists

Abstract

Background: Scapular dyskinesis is considered a risk factor for the shoulder pain that may warrant screening for prevention. Clinicians of all experience screen scapular dyskinesis using the scapular dyskinesis test yes-no classification (Y-N), yet its reliability in asymptomatic individuals is unknown. We aimed to establish Y-N’s intra- and inter-reliability between students and expert physical therapists. Methods: We utilized a cross-sectional design using consecutive asymptomatic subjects. Six students and two experts rated 100 subjects using the Y-N. Cohen’s kappa (κ) and Krippendorff’s alpha (K-α) were calculated to determine intra- and inter-rater reliability. Results: Intra- and inter-rater values for experts were κ=0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.91–0.93) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.84–0.87) respectively; students were κ=0.77 (95% CI, 0.75–0.78) and K-α=0.63 (95% CI, 0.58–0.67). Conclusions: The Y-N is reliable in detecting scapular dyskinesis in asymptomatic individuals regardless of experience.

Differences between Novice and Expert Raters Assessing Trunk Control Using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale Spanish Version (TCMS-S) in Children with Cerebral Palsy

“…Both expert raters were physical therapists with specific postgraduate training in pediatric physical therapy. One of the experts (ER1) had 20 years of clinical experience in pediatric physical therapy, as well as experience using the TCMS-S, and was consider the gold standard expert (ER1) [34]. The other expert (ER2) had 15 years of clinical experience in pediatric physical therapy but initially was not familiar with the TCMS-S.…”

Scapular Dyskinesis: A Commonly Seen Mysterious Condition in Asymptomatic Adults – A Narrative Review

“…4 Optimal shoulder function requires proper positioning and movement of the scapula on the thorax. 5 Altered scapular motion and position have been termed scapular dyskinesis. The definition of dyskinesis is the alteration of normal scapular kinematics.…”