The test-retest reliability of four functional mobility tests in apparently healthy adults

Northgraves, Matthew J.; Hayes, Stephen C.; Marshall, Philip; Madden, Leigh A.; Vince, Rebecca V.

Abstract

Background: Simple field tests are often used to assess functional mobility in clinical settings. Despite having many benefits, these tests are susceptible to measurement error and individual variation. Objectives: To examine the test-retest and absolute reliability of timed up and go test (TUG), five times sit-to-stand (FTSTS), stair climb test (SCT) and 6 minute walk (6MWT). Methods: Over two sessions, thirty-five subjects (30-74 years), repeated the five tests approximately four weeks apart. Test-retest reliability (intraclass correlations [ICC]) and absolute reliability (95% limit of agreements [95% LOA]; standard error of measurement [SEM] and minimum detectable change [MDC]) were calculated. Results: All five tests had high test-retest reliability (ICC > 0.95) although significant between session changes were present for the TUG and FTSTS (p < 0.05). FTSTS displayed the greatest measurement error whilst 95% LOA was the most conservative measure of absolute reliability. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that the TUG, FTSTS, SCT and 6MWT are reliable when performed four weeks apart. Furthermore, the inclusion of SEM, MDC and 95% LOA provides reference values to aid in identifying changes over time above those of measurement error and individual variation.

Citation

Northgraves, M. J., Hayes, S. C., Marshall, P., Madden, L. A., & Vince, R. V. (2016). The test-retest reliability of four functional mobility tests in apparently healthy adults. Isokinetics and Exercise Science, 24(3), 171-179. https://doi.org/10.3233/ies-160614

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 3, 2016
• Publication Date: Aug 22, 2016
• Deposit Date: Feb 24, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 22, 2016
• Journal: Isokinetics and exercise science
• Print ISSN: 0959-3020
• Electronic ISSN: 1878-5913
• Publisher: IOS Press
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 24
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 171-179
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3233/ies-160614
• Keywords: TUG; FTSTS; Stair climb; 6MWT
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/411326
• Publisher URL: http://content.iospress.com/articles/isokinetics-and-exercise-science/ies614
• Additional Information: Author's accepted manuscript of an article published in: Isokinetics and exercise science, 2016, v.24, issue 3