Reliability of performance tests evaluating fall risk and balance in patients with gonarthrosis and its relationship with patient function, quality of life, hand grip strength

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the reliability of performance-based tests (PBT) evaluating fall risk and balance in patients with gonarthrosis and its relationship between patient's functional status, quality of life, grip strength (GS). Methods: One hundred seventeen patients with gonarthrosis meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Within the scope of PBT's, 360° Turn Test (360°TT), Alternate Step Test (AST) and Pick Up a Pen Test (PUPT) were applied to the patients twice in total with one hour intervals. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) models were used to analyze the test-retest reliability of the tests. In addition, results were recorded using Hospital for Special Surgery knee scoring to determine patient function, Short-Form 12 quality of life questionnaire to determine quality of life, and Jamar hand dynamometer to determine GS. Results: All PBT's gave excellent results in test-retest reliability in patients with gonarthrosis (ICC coefficients; 360°TT: 0.933; AST: 0.947; PUPT: 0.872). PBT's showed low and moderate significant relationships with the patient's functional level and quality of life. While 360°TT was found to be significantly associated with GS in both males and females, AST showed significant association only with GS in females. Conclusion: According to the results of our study; 360°TT, AST and PUPT are highly reliable tests in patients with gonarthrosis. In addition, the patient's functional status, quality of life and grip strength are factors that affect the fall risk and balance.