Reliability and validity of the single- and dual-task Figure-of-8 Walk tests in stroke patients

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the validity and reliability of the single- and dual-task Figure-of-8 Walk (F8W) tests in stroke patients. Methods: Thirty-two patients aged 61.09 +/- 9.27 years (mean) were enrolled. The general cognitive function and stroke severity were assessed using the Standardized Mini Mental Test and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, respectively. The single- and dual-task F8W tests were performed in the study. The F8W test with a cognitive task of counting backward by threes (F8W + cog), and the F8W test with a motor task of carrying a glass of water on a tray (F8W + mot) consisted dual-task F8W. Relative and absolute reliability was assessed using the test-retest method and Bland-Altman plots. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM) values were calculated. To assess convergent validity, the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), the 10-Meter Walk Test (10mWT), the Modified Four-Square Step Test (mFSST), and the Six-Spot Step Test (SSST) were administered. Results: The test-retest reliability of the F8W, F8W + cog, and F8W + mot tests demonstrated excellent results, with ICC values of 0.938, 0.929, and 0.935, respectively, and SEM values of 4.57, 5.52, and 5.01. Bland-Altman plots demonstrated that the F8W, F8W + cog, and F8W + mot were quite compatible with all tests (p > 0.99). All F8W tests were moderate to very strong correlation with the TUGT, 10mWT, mFSST, and SSST (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The single- and dual-task F8W tests are useful reliable and valid tests in stroke patients.