Article

This study examined the test-retest reliability and validity of three core muscle
strength tests in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Twenty-one ambulatory
individuals with MS completed the curl-up, flexor endurance, and pelvic tilt
stabilization tests of core muscle strength. They were retested 1-2 weeks after
the first test. The sit-to-stand (STS) test was also conducted on the first test.
Descriptive statistics, intraclass correlation coefficients, SEM, and minimal
detectable change (MDC) were calculated for each test. Pearson's correlations
were calculated between all variables for the first test date. The curl-up test
demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation
coefficient=0.995), requiring 3.4 additional repetitions in 60 s to demonstrate a
detectable change. The curl-up test was moderately correlated with the STS. The
flexor endurance and pelvic tilt stabilization tests demonstrated moderate
test-retest reliability, with relatively large SEMs and MDCs and only a low
correlation with the STS. The curl-up test is recommended as a valid and reliable
test of core muscle strength in individuals with MS. The flexor endurance test
and the pelvic tilt stabilization test of core muscle strength are not
recommended due to large SEM and MDC scores. Further study of core muscle
strength and endurance measures is indicated to seek additional tests that are
valid and reliable in the MS population.

Langue : ANGLAIS