Test-Retest Reliability and the Effects of Exercise on the King-Devick Test

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sports Medicine
• Concussion Research

Background:

• The King-Devick (K-D) test is a rapid visual screening tool used to assess neurological function.
• Its reliability and the impact of exercise on performance are crucial for accurate concussion assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the K-D test.
• To determine the influence of a single bout of exercise on K-D test performance.

Main Methods:

• A crossover study design was employed with 63 healthy college students.
• Participants completed the K-D test twice over a 2-week interval and before/after a controlled exercise or rest intervention.

Main Results:

• The K-D test demonstrated strong test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.90).
• No significant interaction or main effect of exercise on K-D test performance was found.
• A notable 32% false-positive rate was observed in participants.

Conclusions:

• The K-D test exhibits robust reliability for repeated measures.
• The high incidence of false positives necessitates careful interpretation of K-D test results in clinical settings.