Reliability of 3-m Backward Walk Test in Patients with Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

The 3-m backward walk test (3MBWT) is used to evaluate neuromuscular control, proprioception, protective reflexes, fall risk, and balance. The aim of the present study was to determine the test-retest reliability of the 3MBWT in patients with primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Twenty-eight patients with primary TKA, operated by the same surgeon, were included in this study. Patients performed trials for 3MBWT twice on the same day. Between the first and second trials, patients waited for an hour on sitting position to prevent fatigue. The 3MBWT showed an excellent test-retest reliability in this study. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for 3MBWT was 0.97. The standard error of measurement and smallest real difference at the 95% confidence level for 3MBWT were 1.06 and 2.94, respectively. The 3MBWT has an excellent test-retest reliability in patients with primary TKA. It is an effective and reliable tool for measuring dynamic balance and participant falls. As a clinical test, the 3MBWT is easy to score, requires little space, has no cost, needs no special equipment, and can be applied in a short time as part of the routine medical examination. © 2020 World Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine | Published by Wolters Kluwer - Medknow.