Reliability and applicability of two methods for evaluating the range of motion for ankle dorsiflexion

Abstract

Introduction: The limitation of the dorsiflexion movement range is the most used parameter in evaluation and evolution of physiotherapeutic approach. Objective: To evaluate the inter-tester reliability and the applicability of goniometry and Weight-Bearing test for measuring the ankle dorsiflexion. Method: Twenty five volunteers, male sex, average aged 38.81 (+6.26), were included in the study and distributed in: G1 (13 non-athletes) and G2 (12 athletes). The measurement of the ankle dorsiflexion was made by using a universal goniometer, which was adapted with a 45 cm metal rod, and also by using the Weight-Bearing test. The two methods were applied in all the participants, by three clinical examiners, each of whom made the measurement six times. The ICC was used to verify the reliability of the tests. Results: In goniometry, the ICC was 0.98 for G1 and 0.97 for G2. When it comes to Weight-Bearing, the ICC was 0.98 for G1 and the same for G2. All these measures were considered high values. Conclusion: As a conclusion, it may be said that both methods are of great reliability for clinical application in these experimental conditions.