Test-retest reliability of assessing cervical proprioception using cervical range of motion device

Background: Cervical proprioception plays an important role in the stability and optimal functional of the cervical spine and assessment of cervical proprioception is integral in the assessment and management of cervical spine dysfunction. Cervical range of motion (CROM) device is an effective tool, simple and cost effective tool to assess cervical proprioception. The objective of the study was to establish the test-retest reliability of a CROM in assessing cervical proprioception in asymptomatic individuals. Methods: Twenty healthy adults (mean age 37±8 years) were recruited and test retest reliability of CROM device in assessing cervical proprioception was assessed. Cervico-cephalic kinaesthetic sensibility tests - Neutral Head Positioning (NHP) and Target head Positioning (THP) tests were used to assess cervical proprioception. The test retest reliability was assessed in 2 sessions each session is separated with the other by 48 hours. Results: The test-retest reliability of measurements made with the CROM was verified with ICC values for all cervical measurements ranging between 0.66 (CI: 0.1, 0.8) for Target Head Position – rotation right to 0.93 (0.8, 0.9) (CI: 0.8-0.9) for THP – Rotation right. The correlation analysis found there are high and significant correlations between the test and retest results indicating that the reliability of the test can be established (positive correlation coefficients ranging from 0.524 – 0.863). Conclusion: CROM device can be used to quantify cervical proprioception errors with acceptable level of reliability in asymptomatic individuals.