The validity and reliability of a dynamic neuromuscular stabilization-heel sliding test for core stability

BACKGROUND: Core stabilization plays an important role in the regulation of postural stability. To overcome shortcomings associated with pain and severe core instability during conventional core stabilization tests, we recently developed the dynamic neuromuscular stabilization-based heel sliding (DNS-HS) test. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to establish the criterion validity and test-retest reliability of the novel DNS-HS test. METHOD: Twenty young adults with core instability completed both the bilateral straight leg lowering test (BSLLT) and DNS-HS test for the criterion validity study and repeated the DNS-HS test for the test-retest reliability study. Criterion validity was determined by comparing hip joint angle data that were obtained from BSLLT and DNS-HS measures. The test-retest reliability was determined by comparing hip joint angle data. RESULTS: Criterion validity was (ICC2, 3) = 0.700 (p < 0.05), suggesting a good relationship between the two core stability measures. Test-retest reliability was (ICC3, 3) = 0.953 (p < 0.05), indicating excellent consistency between the repeated DNS-HS measurements. CONCLUSIONS: Criterion validity data demonstrated a good relationship between the gold standard BSLLT and DNS-HS core stability measures. Test-retest reliability data suggests that DNS-HS core stability was a reliable test for core stability. Clinically, the DNS-HS test is useful to objectively quantify core instability and allow early detection and evaluation.