Intrarater reliability of cervical range of motion device in measuring cervical active range of motion in patients with chronic neck pain and respiratory dysfunction

Abstract

Background: Assessment of cervical active range of motion (CAROM) in three planes was one of the primary outcome measures used by the clinicians. Methodology: We enrolled 30 patients (14 males and 16 females) with chronic neck pain and respiratory dysfunction fulfilling inclusion criteria. Two trials of CAROM measurement for flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion and left and right rotation were performed, with a gap of one week to measure test retest reliability of CROM device. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard errors of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated to test the intrarater reliability. Results: Intrarater reliability of repeated measurements of CAROM using the CROM device was found to be good. The ICC values ranged between 0.88-0.97 for flexion, 0.93-0.98 for extension, 0.92-0.98 for right lateral flexion,0.93-0.98 for left lateral flexion. For right rotation it was 0.88-0.97, for left lateral rotation it was 0.95-0.99. The standard error of measurement for these movements ranged from 1.5° to 2.9°. Minimal detectable change ranged from 3.5°for extension to 6.8°for left lateral flexion. Conclusion: Cervical range of motion device is a reliable tool for measuring cervical active range of motion in patients simultaneously suffering from chronic neck pain and respiratory dysfunction.