Reliability of Impairment Measures for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Author Information
Author(s): Sara R. Piva, Kelley Fitzgerald, James J. Irrgang, Scott Jones, Benjamin R. Hando, David A. Browder, John D. Childs
Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the inter-tester reliability and measurement error of measures of impairments associated with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS).
Conclusion
Several of the impairments associated with PFPS had sufficient reliability and low measurement error.
Supporting Evidence
- Inter-tester reliability coefficients were substantial for measures of hamstrings, quadriceps, plantarflexors, and ITB/TFL complex length.
- Moderate reliability was observed for measures of Q-angle, tibial torsion, and hip external rotation strength.
- Poor reliability was found for femoral anteversion.
Takeaway
This study looked at how reliable different tests are for measuring problems in people with knee pain. It found that many tests are pretty good at giving consistent results.
Methodology
A single group repeated measures design was used with two pairs of physical therapists collecting data while blinded to each other's measurements.
Potential Biases
Variations in technique across clinicians in real clinical settings may affect reliability.
Limitations
The reliability results may be over-estimated compared to real clinical practice due to the controlled environment and well-trained testers.
Participant Demographics
{"age":{"mean":29,"range":"14 to 47"},"gender":{"female":17,"male":13}}
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
{"hamstrings_length":"0.82; 0.96","quadriceps_length":"0.80; 0.96","foot_pronation":"0.84; 0.97"}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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