Performance, Test-retest Reliability, and Measurement Error of the Upper Limb Seated Shot Put Test According to Different Positions of Execution

BACKGROUND: The unilateral Seated Shot-Put Test (USSPT) is an easy to apply, inexpensive tool that can be used to assess shoulder performance unilaterally. Two different positions of execution have been described in previous studies, however, differences regarding reference values and psychometric properties were not assessed. PURPOSE: To investigate the performance, test-retest reliability and measurement error of the USSPT according to different positions of execution (floor versus chair) in overhead athletes. The hypothesis was that both positions would present similar values, good to excellent test-retest reliability and clinically acceptable measures. STUDY DESIGN: Test-retest reliability. METHODS: Forty-four overhead athletes performed the USSPT on the floor (USSPT-F) and on a chair (USSPT-C). Normative values were established according to gender, age, and dominance. Test-retest reliability was determined using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient and measurement error through Standard Error of Measurement, Smallest Detectable Change, as well as Bland and Altman plots. RESULTS: Reference values for both positions were provided. Women performed better on the USSPT-C than USSPT-F. Excellent test-retest reliability 0.97 (0.89 – 0.99) for dominant side and 0.95 (0.80 – 0.98) for non-dominant side was found for the USSPT-F. Moderate to excellent reliability 0.91 (0.67 – 0.98) for dominant side and 0.74 (0.01 – 0.93) for non-dominant side was found for the USSPT-C. Presence of systematic error (14.76 cm) was found only for USSPT-C dominant (p=0.011). CONCLUSION: Differences were found only for women with better performance on the USSPT-C. The USSPT-F presented higher reliability values. Both tests presented clinically acceptable measures. Presence of systematic error was found only in the USSPT-C. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3