Pectoral and Hip Flexors Muscle Length Tests as Elements of Developmental Age Postural Examination Standardized for the Purpose of Interdisciplinary Utilization

Abstract

Proposed by the World Health Organisation, the bio-psycho-social model of medicine encourages specialists across various fields to embrace interdisciplinary approaches. For such teams to function effectively, members must acquire a foundational understanding of disciplines beyond their expertise. This facilitates the timely introduction of other essential interventions. The study’s primary aim was to evaluate the reliability of the modified versions of clinical tests for the length of pectoral and hip flexor muscles. Additionally,
the study sought to determine whether these modified tests could be utilized in scientific, home, or school settings, enabling non-clinical specialists to conduct screenings and identify the need for referral to a clinician.
Sixty-two children (36 girls) were enrolled in primary school classes four to eight, with a mean age of 12.15 years. The participants were generally healthy and displayed varying levels of daily physical activity. A repeatedmeasures design assessed the results of two muscle length tests conducted by two raters. Measurements were taken by both raters on the same day, as well as after two- and five-day intervals. Various reliability indices were calculated, demonstrating good to excellent reliability for the two muscle length tests.
Following appropriate, specific modifications, the two muscle length tests showed potential for achieving a high level of reliability, supporting the use of their modified versions in scientific settings. Additionally, other professionals – such as teachers, trainers, and educators – could benefit from employing these standardized and modified tests in their regular environments (e.g., home, school) for screening purposes and determining the need for referral to a clinician.