Article

Objective: To evaluate the intra- and interrater reliability of tests from the Ergo-Kit (EK) functional capacity evaluation method in adults without musculoskeletal complaints. Design: Within-subjects design. Academic medical center in the Netherlands. Participants: Twenty-seven subjects without musculoskeletal complaints (15 men, 12 women). Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Seven EK tests (2 isometric, 3 dynamic lifting, 2 manipulation tests) were each assessed 3 times (over 4 days), twice by 1 rater (RI) and once by another rater (R-2). Intrarater reliability was calculated using the EK test scores assessed by R-1. Interrater reliability was calculated using the EK test scores assessed by both raters. Counterbalancing the rater order made possible the calculation of 2 interrater reliability levels (at time intervals of 4 and 8d). All reliability levels were expressed as intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results: Intrarater and interrater reliability (8-d time interval) was high (ICC, >.80) for the isometric lifting tests, moderate (ICC range, .50-.80) for the dynamic lifting tests, and low (ICC, <.50) for the manipulation tests. The interrater reliability of the isometric and dynamic lifting tests (4-d time interval) was high (ICC, >.80), and it was moderate (ICC range, .50-.80) for both manipulation tests. Conclusions: The isometric and dynamic lifting tests of the EK have a moderate to high level of reliability, the manipulation tests have a low level of reliability.

Langue : ANGLAIS