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Validation of an abdominal muscle strength test with dynamometry
Carlos E Ladeira1, Larry W Hess, Benjamin M Galin
1College of Allied Health, Health Profession Division, Physical Therapy Program, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33328, USA. cladeira@nova.edu
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|November 17, 2005
Summary
The double-leg-lowering maneuver (DLLM) is a reliable test for assessing abdominal function. However, it demonstrates low validity for measuring abdominal muscle strength, suggesting limited use for this purpose.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Abdominal strength is crucial for preventing injuries and stabilizing the spine during physical activity.
- The double-leg-lowering maneuver (DLLM) is a commonly used, simple test for assessing abdominal strength.
- Limited research exists on the validity and reliability of the DLLM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the reliability and validity of the double-leg-lowering maneuver (DLLM) for assessing abdominal strength.
- To compare DLLM scores with a gold standard measurement for validity.
- To evaluate inter-rater reliability of the DLLM.
Main Methods:
- Four examiners assessed 28 subjects using the DLLM.
- The Nicholas Hand-Held Dynamometer (NHHD) was used as the gold standard for validity assessment.
- DLLM scores were analyzed for intra-rater reliability and compared to NHHD scores for validity.
Main Results:
- The DLLM demonstrated very high reliability among examiners (r = 0.932).
- The validity of the DLLM for assessing abdominal strength was found to be low (r = -0.338 to -0.446).
Conclusions:
- The double-leg-lowering maneuver (DLLM) is a reliable test but has low validity for assessing abdominal muscle strength.
- The DLLM may be more appropriate for evaluating pelvic tilt motor control and spine stability rather than direct muscle strength measurement.