Reliability and Validity of Modified Four Square Step Test

Overview

Functional improvements are reached in patients with primary total hip arthroplasty compared to the pre-operative term however some problems as continued range of motion limitations, loss of joint proprioception sensation, and resulting balance and gait disorders may result in failure of the Four Square Step Test. Therefore, the need for the apply of the Modified Four Square Step Test in individuals with primary THA is necessary. The aim of this study is to evaluate the test-retest reliability, concurrent validity and minimal detectable change of the Modified Four Square Step Test in individuals with primary total hip arthroplasty.

Roos et al. improved the Modified Four-Square Step Test to complete the test by stroke patients and not to fall due to practices of the test while performing the test. The Modified Four Square Step Test variates from the The Four Square Step Test is that the person is not asked to look ahead during the test, and instead of using a cane, tapes are used to prevent people from losing their balance by tripping over the obstacle. Thus, although the height of the obstacle is reduced, the boundaries of the obstacle are preserved. Functional improvements are reached in patients with primary total hip arthroplasty compared to the pre-operative term however some problems as continued range of motion limitations, loss of joint proprioception sensation, and resulting balance and gait disorders may result in failure of the Four Square Step Test. Therefore, the need for the apply of the Modified Four Square Step Test in individuals with primary THA is necessary. The aim of this study is to evaluate the test-retest reliability, concurrent validity and minimal detectable change of the Modified Four Square Step Test in individuals with primary total hip arthroplasty.

Conditions