Validity and Reliability of Face-to-Face and Tele-Assessment of Core Stability and Functional Cap… (NCT07256873) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Validity and Reliability of Face-to-Face and Tele-Assessment of Core Stability and Functional Capacity
Turkey (Türkiye)36 participantsStarted 2025-11-30
Plain-language summary
This study aims to compare the validity and reliability of core stability and functional capacity measurements when performed face-to-face and through tele-assessment in individuals with chronic low back pain. Chronic low back pain affects a large portion of the adult population and is associated with reduced core muscle endurance, impaired postural control, and decreased functional capacity. Tele-assessment has become increasingly important, especially after the pandemic, but there is limited evidence regarding its validity and reliability for physical performance tests.
In this study, 36 individuals with nonspecific chronic low back pain will complete core stability tests (plank, side plank, Biering-Sørensen test, and trunk flexor endurance test), functional capacity tests (Timed Up and Go, 30-Second Chair Stand, and 1-Minute Stair Climb), and questionnaires including the Visual Analog Scale and the Oswestry Disability Index. Assessments will be performed by the same physiotherapist first face-to-face in the clinic, then by tele-assessment, and tele-assessment will be repeated after 5-7 days to assess test-retest reliability.
The results are expected to show whether tele-assessment provides accurate and reliable measurements compared with traditional face-to-face evaluation. The findings may support the safe and evidence-based use of tele-assessment methods in physiotherapy practice for individuals with chronic low back pain.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Must have been diagnosed with chronic (\>3 months) nonspecific low back pain.
* Must be between 18 and 65 years of age.
* Must be able to independently perform activities of daily living.
* Must not have had previous surgery for low back pain.
* Must be clinically fit to safely perform the tests specified in the research protocol.
* Must have access to the necessary technology (mobile phone, tablet, or computer, internet connection) to participate in in-person and tele-assessment sessions.
* Must be willing to participate in the study and provide written consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of back surgery or serious trauma.
* History of neurological, rheumatological, cardiovascular, or pulmonary disease.
* Presence of severe scoliosis, kyphosis, or other structural spinal deformities.
* Acute pain, serious musculoskeletal injury, or orthopedic problem that prevents exercise.
* Inability to perform tests safely due to vision and/or hearing loss.
* Inability to follow instructions due to psychiatric or cognitive problems.
* Lack of technological infrastructure for online interviews and tele-assessments.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This study compared in-person and remote (tele-assessment) versions of tests like the Plank, Side Plank, and Timed Up and Go — would it be appropriate for me to use any of these at-home tests to track my core stability and functional capacity as part of managing my chronic low back pain?
2Since this trial is completed, has my care team seen the findings, and do they feel the results support using telehealth-based assessments as a reliable substitute for in-clinic testing for someone with my level of back pain?
3The study measured things like the Biering-Sørensen Test and 30-Second Chair Stand Test — are any of these physical performance tests ones my doctor would want to use to set a baseline for my condition and measure how I respond to treatment over time?
4Given that this was a validity and reliability study rather than a treatment trial, it doesn't test a new therapy — so how should I understand what it means for my actual care, and is there a separate treatment approach my doctor would recommend alongside any of these assessments?
5The trial included a stair climb test and chair stand test alongside core endurance measures — based on results like these, are there specific functional deficits my doctor thinks I should be addressing, and would a structured exercise or physiotherapy program be a better next step for me than waiting for further research?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Plank Test (Forearm Plank Test)
Timeframe: 4 weeks
2
Side Plank Test (Side Bridge Test)
Timeframe: 4 weeks
3
Biering-Sørensen Test
Timeframe: 4 weeks
4
Flexor Endurance Test (Curl-Up Test / Trunk Flexor Endurance Test)