The aim of this study was to design and develop a new craniocervical flexion motion control test (CFMCT) based on inertial sensor technology and real-time computer feedback, and to evaluate its safety and usability, as well as inter- and intra-rater reliability in healthy individuals and patients with neck pain.
We used inertial sensor technology associated with a new software that provides real-time computer feedback to assess CCF movement control through a progressive consecutive stages protocol. The real-time computer feedback allowed for precise monitoring of movement patterns. The CFMCT included incremental and progressive stages of CCF ROM to facilitate more consistent and controlled motor assessments. To evaluate the CFMCT test reliability, we measured intra-rater and inter-rater reliability through the calculation of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and we also determined the standard error of measurement (SEM). Participants, both asymptomatic and with chronic neck pain, were asked to evaluate the system’s usability using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Additionally, we monitored for any adverse effects during and after the sessions to ensure the safety of the procedure.
Eighty participants (40 with neck pain, 40 asymptomatic) successfully completed the study protocol and we included them in the study. Among them, there were 44 women and 36 men, with a mean age of 34.38 ± 14.4 The CFMCT was both safe and user-friendly. Participants in the neck pain group reported a SUS score of 82.00 ± 11.55, while those in the asymptomatic group scored 79.56 ± 13.36. Regarding reliability, the progressive consecutive stages protocol demonstrated good inter-rater reliability (ICC≥0.75), and moderate to good intra-rater reliability, with ICC values ranging from 0.62 to 0.80. No significant side effects or discomfort were reported by any of the participants, further supporting the safety of the protocol.
The CFMCT is a promising new method for evaluating CCF motor control in patients with chronic neck pain. Its reliability and ease of use make it a suitable option for telehealth evaluations, which could enhance patient adherence and accessibility to prescribed exercises. It seems to be a safe and usable instrument both in patients with chronic neck pain and asymptomatic participants However, further research is necessary to investigate its psychometric properties and potential the clinical applications for exercise prescription.
It seems to be a safe and usable instrument both in patients with chronic neck pain and asymptomatic participants However, further research is necessary to investigate its psychometric properties and potential the clinical applications for exercise prescription.
CCFT
Inertial sensors
