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Forward lunge as a functional performance test in ACL deficient subjects: test-retest reliability
Tine Alkjaer1, Marius Henriksen, Poul Dyhre-Poulsen
1Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Division of Biomechanics, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. t.alkjaer@mai.ku.dk
The Knee
|December 20, 2008
Summary
The forward lunge is a reliable functional test for assessing knee biomechanics. Averaging at least three trials ensures dependable results for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) research and rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- The forward lunge is a functional movement with potential as a performance test.
- Assessing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) status in deficient or reconstructed individuals is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the forward lunge in healthy individuals.
- To determine the optimal number of repetitions for reliable biomechanical data collection.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen healthy subjects performed four forward lunge trials over two separate days.
- Key biomechanical variables including movement time, ground reaction forces (IFz, IFy), and knee kinematics/dynamics were analyzed.
- Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) were used to assess relative reliability.
Main Results:
- Ground reaction force impulses (IFz, IFy) and positive knee extensor work demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC > 0.75).
- Other measured variables showed acceptable reliability (0.4 < ICC < 0.75).
- Reliability improved with an increased number of lunge repetitions.
Conclusions:
- The forward lunge exhibits acceptable test-retest reliability as a functional biomechanical assessment.
- A minimum of three forward lunge trials is recommended to ensure reliable biomechanical data.
