Reliability and Validity of the Evaluation of Hip Abductors Strength (RAVEHABDS)

Reliability and Validity of the Measurement Procedure for the Evaluation of Hip Abductors Strength in Unipodal Standing Position

The aim is to evaluate the intra- and inter-tester reliability, construct validity and feasibility of a new functional measurement procedure in a closed chain position on one leg. For this purpose, we will test the maximal voluntary isometric force, as well as the muscular contraction speed of the hip abductor muscles.

Within this Master thesis project, we will investigate intra- and inter-tester reliability, as well as construct validity of a measurement procedure to assess hip abductor strength in a closed-chain position. Additionally, we aim to investigate some aspects of feasibility using a questionnaire about the measurement procedure and by evaluating if the test can be completing in a suitable timeframe for practical use.

To investigate intra- and inter-tester reliability, as well as construct validity, we will analyze and compare the maximal voluntary isometric strength (MVIS) and the rate of force generated (RFG) of the three groups of healthy participant (group 1: 18-30 years old; group 2: 31-65 years old; group 3: 65+ years old).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Persons over 18 years old, good understanding of French, German, English or Italian, with the capacity of discernment regarding their own participation in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Persons with cognitive impairment or who are unable to take their own decisions about participation in the study, or who have undergone surgery on the lower limb or lumbopelvic area during the last 6 months that could contradict or influence the strength tests, will be excluded from the study