Clinical assessment of hand motor performance after acquired brain injury with dynamic computerized hand dynamometry: construct, concurrent, and predictive validity.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the construct, concurrent, and predictive validity of dynamic computerized hand dynamometry.


METHODS
Prospective correlational study between dynamometry and functional upper limb performance.


METHODS
Hospital outpatient spasticity clinics.


METHODS
Adults with upper motor neuron syndrome affecting the upper limb after acquired brain injury (ABI) (n=38; median age, 50 y; range, 18-81 y) and healthy adult control participants (n=27; median age, 37 y; range, 22-62 y).


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
Dynamic computerized dynamometry elements of hand performance (isometric force, force velocity, isometric grip work, contraction and relaxation duration) and the Action Research Arm Test.


RESULTS
Motor elements of hand performance objectively measured by the dynamic computerized dynamometry protocol achieved moderate to good validity when correlated with standardized measures of functional hand performance. Dynamic computerized dynamometry identified clear differences in hand performance between participants with and without ABI. Within the ABI group, dynamic computerized hand dynamometry achieved fair to moderate predictive validity with regards to whether a participant would be referred for botulinum toxin A injections.


CONCLUSIONS
This study provides support for the construct, concurrent, and predictive validity of the dynamic computerized dynamometry protocol.
Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service, Westmead Hospital, Wentworthville, NSW, Australia. hbar1204@uni.sydney.edu.au
Hannah L
HL
Barden
Melissa T
MT
Nott
Robert
R
Heard
Christine
C
Chapparo
Ian J
IJ
Baguley
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016472:Motor Neuron Disease / Q000209:etiology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009048:Motor Skills; D009128:Muscle Spasticity / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D053581:Muscle Strength Dynamometer; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D055815:Young Adult