Inter-session Reliability of Glenohumeral Internal and External Rotation Range-of-motion Measurements is Unaffected by Use of Applied Load Feedback

This study evaluated whether real-time applied load feedback and a predefined applied load limit improved inter-session reliability and measurement error of passive glenohumeral rotation range-of-motion measurements. Twenty-one male recreational overhead athletes completed two data collection sessions, approximately 1-week apart. Measurements of internal and external rotation range-of-motion and clinician-applied loads were obtained and side-to-side differences were calculated. A load limit of 4 Nm was used for feedback trials. Perception of a capsular end-feel was used for no-feedback trials. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard errors of measurement (SEMs) and minimal detectable changes (MDCs) were derived. ICCs from single trials with and without feedback ranged from 0.72-0.93 and 0.63-0.89, respectively. SEMs ranged from 2.6 degrees-6.1 degrees with feedback and 3.3 degrees-6.0 degrees without feedback. MDCs from single trials with and without feedback ranged from 7.2 degrees-16.8 degrees and 9.1 degrees-16.7 degrees, respectively. Applied load feedback did not improve, already moderate to excellent, inter-session reliability and SEM for passive glenohumeral rotation range-of-motion measurements.