Article

We analysed reliability, smallest real difference (SRD) and concurrent validity
of indices computed from the ground reaction force (GRF) vertical and fore-aft
components in a sample of 56 patients with hemiparesis secondary to stroke. These
parameters have been recommended for the assessment of weight-bearing and
propulsion. The sample size was calculated based on guidelines for reliability
studies and patient levels of impairment ranged from mild to severe. Reliability
was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), SRD was computed as
the 95% confidence interval (CI) of the standard error and concurrent validity
was assessed using the Spearman correlation coefficient between each index and gait speed, with the latter being used as the criterion standard. Excellent
reliability (ICC>0.90) for all indices was achieved by averaging values of three
consecutive gait trials. SRD ranged between 5% and 10% of the sample grand mean
for vertical GRF-based indices, and between 20% and 40% for fore-aft GRF-based
indices. All indices but one showed concurrent validity with walking speed, with
correlation coefficients ranging from 0.423 (p<0.01) to 0.834 (p<0.01). Amongst
studied indices, the mean value of vertical GRF and the mean value of the
propulsive part of the fore-aft component showed the best performance in terms of
ICC, SRD and concurrent validity. These appear to be the most appropriate indices
to assess weight-bearing and propulsive ability, respectively, in this group.

Langue : ANGLAIS