Development of a Qualitative Evaluation Tool for Stand to Sit

Abstract

Introduction: Many studies have evaluated various tests and instruments to identify methods appropriate for the assessment of balance in stroke patients. But, movement quality tends to be quantitatively evaluated, due to limitations associated with qualitative evaluations.

Objectives: This study aimed to perform an equipment-based objective assessment of StandTS performance in stroke patients to develop the stand to sit test (SST).

Methods: In this cross-sectional study involving 61 stroke patients meeting inclusion criteria, data on sex, age, height, weight, affected side, and onset duration were collected through patient interviews and medical records. Participants underwent tests like FTSST, FRT, TUGT, and BBS, with seat pressure data measured during FTSST using a device from X Sensor Technology Corporation, Canada. The Seat Pressure Sensing Test (SST) was developed based on this data, with reliability and validity measures to validate its use in assessing post-stroke patients' balance and postural control.

Results: Regarding the validity of the SST, SST scores were positively correlated TUGT scores (r = 0.342, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with FTSST (r = -0.056, p > 0.05), FRT (r = -0.824, p < 0.01), and BBS (r = -0.386, p < 0.01). The FTSST was positively correlated with the TUGT (r = 0.054, p > 0.05), and negatively correlated with the FRT (r = -0.031, p > 0.05) and BBS (r = -0.093, p > 0.05). The FRT was positively correlated with the BBS (r = 0.423, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with the TUGT (r = -0.259, p < 0.05). Finally, the TUGT was negatively correlated with the BBS (r = -0.793, p < 0.01)

Conclusions: In particular, the test may facilitate the qualitative assessment of balance and postural control in person’s post-stroke receiving inpatient care.