Validity and reliability of center of pressure measures to quantify trunk control ability in individuals after stroke in subacute phase during unstable sitting test

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess, for individuals with hemiparesis after a stroke in subacute phase, the validity and reliability of center of pressure (CoP) parameters measured during sitting balance on an unstable support. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two individuals after stroke were included in this observational study for validity and reliability (mean age: 64.34 ± 9.30y, 23 men, mean post-stroke duration: 55.64 ± 27days). Intra-Class Correlation (ICC) and Bland Altman plot assessed intra-rater reliability and inter-rater reliability of CoP parameters during unstable sitting balance test (anteroposterior or mediolateral imbalance). Validity was established by correlating CoP parameters with the Modified Functional Reach Test, trunk strength, Balance Assessment in Sitting and Standing and Timed Up and Go tests. RESULTS: The findings highlighted significant correlations between CoP parameters and trunk strength for anteroposterior seated destabilization. Good to excellent intra and inter-rater reliability (0.87 ≤ ICC ≤ 0.95) was observed for all CoP length parameters and CoP mean velocity in both mediolateral and anteroposterior imbalance conditions. CoP parameters for mediolateral unstable sitting condition were more reliable than for anteroposterior instability. CONCLUSION: Trunk control assessment during unstable sitting position on a seesaw is a reliable test for assessing trunk control ability in individuals after a stroke. CoP length and mean velocity are found to be the best parameters.