Between-Session Reliability of Field-Based Assessments of Isometric Neck Strength

Oxford, Samuel W. and Clarke, Neil and Tallis, Jason (2024) Between-Session Reliability of Field-Based Assessments of Isometric Neck Strength. Sensors, 24 (15). p. 5015. ISSN 1424-8220

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Abstract

The reliability of the fixed-frame dynamometer for measuring isometric neck strength is established, but with limited field-based applications. This study aimed to establish the inter- and intra-session reliability of the peak force for neck flexors, extensors, and side flexors using the VALD ForceFrame and DynaMo and the force–time characteristics in the quadruped position (ForceFrame). Twenty-seven recreationally active males performed three repetitions of isometric neck flexion, extension, and side flexion over two sessions in random order using the VALD ForceFrame and DynaMo. Both devices demonstrated acceptable reliability, with the Forceframe ICC > 0.8 and CV% < 13.8% and the DynaMo ICC > 0.76 and CV% < 13.8%. No systematic or proportional differences were found using the Passing–Bablock procedure, and Bland–Altman analysis confirmed agreement across measures. Reliability was shown for right-side (ICC > 0.76) and left-side (ICC > 0.79) flexion and flexion (ICC > 0.75) across 50, 100, 150, and 200 ms. Statistical parametric mapping indicated no differences in ForceFrame-generated isometric force–time curves between sessions, though the CV was highest in the force development phase. The findings suggest that both tools can reliably assess neck strength, supporting their use in sports and clinical settings. However, assessment methods are not interchangeable, emphasising the need for standardised neck strength assessment approaches.

Item Type: Article
Identification Number: 10.3390/s24155015
Dates:
Date
Event
30 July 2024
Accepted
2 August 2024
Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords: reliability, isometric neck strength, concussion, force–time curve, time-specific force, validity
Subjects: CAH03 - biological and sport sciences > CAH03-02 - sport and exercise sciences > CAH03-02-01 - sport and exercise sciences
Divisions: Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences > College of Life Sciences
Depositing User: Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited: 16 Aug 2024 10:25
Last Modified: 16 Aug 2024 10:25
URI: https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/15729

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