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Relative validity and reliability of isometric lower extremity strength assessment in older adults by using a handheld dynamometer
Grootswagers, Pol Vaes, Anouk M. M. Hangelbroek, Roland Tieland, Michael Van Loon, Lucas J. C. de Groot, Lisette C. P. G. M.
Grootswagers, Pol
Vaes, Anouk M. M.
Hangelbroek, Roland
Tieland, Michael
Van Loon, Lucas J. C.
de Groot, Lisette C. P. G. M.
Abstract
Background:
Handheld dynamometry (HHD) is a practical alternative to traditional testing of lower extremity strength. However, its reliability and validity across different populations and settings are not clear.
Hypothesis:
We hypothesize that HHD is a valid and reliable device to assess lower extremity strength in a population of older adults.
Study Design:
Cross-sectional/cohort.
Level of Evidence:
Level 3.
Methods:
This study included 258 older adults (≥65 years). Isometric knee extension and flexion force were measured by 1 examiner, using an HHD (n = 222), including 3 repetitions to calculate within-day intrarater reliability. These measurements were repeated by the examiner in a subgroup (n = 23) to analyze intrarater reliability over a test-retest period of on average 8 weeks. In addition, HHD force measures were performed by a second examiner (n = 29) to analyze interrater reliability. In another subgroup (n = 77), isometric knee extension and flexion torque were measured by 1 examiner using both the HHD and Biodex System 4 to assess relative validity.
Results:
HHD and Biodex measurements were highly correlated and showed excellent concurrent validity. HHD systematically overestimated torque as compared with Biodex by 8 N·m on average. Same-day intrarater intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranged from 0.97 to 0.98. Interrater reliability ICCs ranged from 0.83 to 0.95.
Conclusion:
HHD represents a reliable and valid alternative to Biodex to rank individuals on leg strength, or to assess within-person changes in leg strength over time, because of the high validity and reliability. The HHD is less suited for absolute strength assessment because of significant systematic overestimations.
Clinical Relevance:
Clinicians are encouraged to use HHD to rank older adults on leg strength, or to assess within-person changes in leg strength over time, but not to compare readings with cut-offs or normative values.
Keywords
leg strength, accuracy, Biodex, MicroFET, intrarater reliability, interrater reliability
Date
2022
Type
Journal article
Journal
Sports Health
Book
Volume
14
Issue
6
Page Range
899-905
Article Number
ACU Department
Centre for Exercise and Nutrition
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled