Test-retest reliability of isokinetic dynamometry for the assessment of spasticity of the knee flexors and knee extensors in children with cerebral palsy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess test-retest reliability of the peak resistance torque and slope of work methods of spasticity measurement of the knee flexors and extensors in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

DESIGN

Test-retest reliability study.

SETTING

Pediatric orthopedic hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen children with CP.

INTERVENTION

Knee extensor and flexor spasticity was assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer using passive movements at 15 degrees, 90 degrees, and 180 degrees/s taken 1 hour apart.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Peak resistive torque and work were calculated. The relative and absolute test-retest reliability was calculated by using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland-Altman plots, respectively.

RESULTS

Relative reliability was good (ICC>.75) for slope-of-work and peak resistance torque measurements at a velocity of 180 degrees/s, whereas reliability of peak torque measurements was decreased (ICC<.51) at slower velocities for both muscle groups. The 95% limits of agreement of Bland-Altman plots contained most data points for both methods, but the width of the limits of agreement were wide.

CONCLUSIONS

The measurement of spasticity of the knee extensors and flexors in children with CP using peak-resistance torque at 180 degrees/s and the slope of work method has acceptable relative test-retest reliability. However, the absolute reliability of spasticity data should be considered cautiously.