Biomedical subjects

C T Wadsworth

Publications and source records attributed to C T Wadsworth.

5 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed1990

Validity and reliability testing of the Scoliometer.

This study was designed to evaluate the Scoliometer, an instrument that measures axial trunk rotation in individuals with scoliosis. The objectives included determining 1) the Scoliometer's screening capability and validity and 2) the intrarater and interrater reliability of Scoliometer measurements. Scoliometer measurements made by two raters on 65 persons with idiopathic scoliosis were correlated with radiographic assessment of vertebral (pedicle) rotation and lateral curvature (Cobb method). Correlation ranged from .32 to .46 with pedicle rotation and from .46 to .54 with the Cobb angle. Frequency analysis revealed relatively good specificity, sensitivity, and predictive capability of the Scoliometer. Intrarater and interrater reliability coefficients were high (r = .86-.97). These results indicate good measurement reproducibility. The less-than-optimal between-method correlation coefficients suggest that the validity of Scoliometer measurements is not sufficient to use this method alone for determining patient diagnosis and management. Based on the positive-frequency analysis, however, the use of this tool as a screening device would be appropriate.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1990

Energy cost, exercise intensity, and gait efficiency of standard versus rocker-bottom axillary crutch walking.

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in selected biomechanical and physiological measurements and subjective preferences for ambulation with the standard single-tip axillary crutch versus the rocker-bottom-type axillary crutch. Self-selected walking velocities (S-SWVs) and stride length for each crutch type were determined for a two-point, non-weight-bearing, swing-through gait in 24 healthy volunteers. Relative exercise intensity, oxygen uptake (VO2), and gait efficiency were assessed for each crutch type at both S-SWVs. Subjects negotiated two architectural barriers (stairs and ramp) and completed a subjective questionnaire concerning crutch preferences. Walking with either crutch type resulted in slower S-SWVs, greater VO2, higher relative exercise intensity, and reduced gait efficiency compared with values for normal unassisted ambulation. An analysis of variance for these variables revealed nonsignificant between-crutch differences. Based on the subjective data, a preference for the standard single-tip crutch was evident. Within the scope of the study, the results supported no apparent advantage relative to energy expenditure to using the rocker-bottom crutch.

Adult↗

PubMed1987

Intrarater reliability of manual muscle testing and hand-held dynametric muscle testing.

Physical therapists require an accurate, reliable method for measuring muscle strength. They often use manual muscle testing or hand-held dynametric muscle testing (DMT), but few studies document the reliability of MMT or compare the reliability of the two types of testing. We designed this study to determine the intrarater reliability of MMT and DMT. A physical therapist performed manual and dynametric strength tests of the same five muscle groups on 11 patients and then repeated the tests two days later. The correlation coefficients were high and significantly different from zero for four muscle groups tested dynametrically and for two muscle groups tested manually. The test-retest reliability coefficients for two muscle groups tested manually could not be calculated because the values between subjects were identical. We concluded that both MMT and DMT are reliable testing methods, given the conditions described in this study. Both testing methods have specific applications and limitations, which we discuss.

Adult↗

PubMed1986

Frozen shoulder.

Widespread use of the label "frozen shoulder" as a diagnosis for any stiff and painful shoulder condition has led to its becoming a rather meaningless, catchall term. In addition to confounding both the lay public and health care professionals, this indiscriminate labeling may prevent a patient from receiving appropriate treatment. In this article, I define frozen shoulder and review its pathologic and etiologic factors, epidemiology, natural history, and diagnosis. I present this information in correlation with an examination process to assist physical therapists in identifying suspected cases of frozen shoulder. I also present the current options for treatment, including physical therapy management with physical agents and exercise.

Arthrography↗

PubMed1982

Use of the interview in admissions.

A description of one method of dealing with nonacademic information from applicants seeking acceptance into a physical therapy curriculum is presented. The strengths of this admission process are interviewer training sessions, use of simulated interviews presented by videotape, subsequent discussion of ratings, specific criteria to support interview ratings, and an arbitration procedure. Attempts were made to increase the objectivity of the interview through frequent meetings of the admission committee to decide on the areas of the interview and specific criteria on which to rate each area. In the areas of weighting factors, training of interviewers, development of specific interview criteria, arbitration procedure, and the use of the computer printout, this admission process could be easily adapted to other allied health programs. Details of the interview are discussed.

Educational Measurement↗