Validity and Reliability of Face-to-Face and Tele-Assessment of Core Stability and Functional Capacity

NCT07256873 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: ISTU-PT-CLBP-2025
• Study Type: observational
• Target: 36
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief 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.

Conditions

Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP)

Keywords

Chronic low back pain; Core stability; Functional capacity; Validity, Reliability; Face-to-face assessment; Tele-assessment

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (7)

• Plank Test (Forearm Plank Test)

  The plank test is used to measure the endurance capacity of all trunk stabilizers, especially the abdominal muscles. It evaluates the time it takes to maintain the trunk in a neutral position for an extended period. The individual stands parallel to the floor, supported by their forearms and toes. The body should form a straight line, and the hips should not sag or rise. The maximum time the participant can maintain this position is measured with a stopwatch

  4 weeks

• Side Plank Test (Side Bridge Test)

  This test is used to evaluate the endurance of the oblique abdominal muscles, quadratus lumborum, and lateral trunk stabilizers. This test focuses on lateral trunk stability. The participant lies on their side, supported by their elbows and the outer edge of their feet. The trunk should be parallel to the floor and in a straight line. The time they can maintain this position is measured. It is usually performed separately for each side and compared

  4 weeks

• Biering-Sørensen Test

  This is a standard test that evaluates the isometric endurance of the lower back extensor muscles (especially the erector spinae). A relationship has been shown between trunk extensor muscle endurance and pain levels in individuals with low back pain. The participant lies prone with their hips toward the edge of a table. The pelvis is supported on the table at the level of the pelvis, and the hips and legs are fixed. The trunk is released into a horizontal position, and the duration of the individual's ability to maintain this position is measured with a stopwatch

  4 weeks

• Flexor Endurance Test (Curl-Up Test / Trunk Flexor Endurance Test)

  This test is used to measure the isometric endurance of the trunk flexor muscles (especially the rectus abdominis and oblique muscles). The ability to hold the trunk in a flexed position for extended periods is assessed. The participant lies supine, knees bent 90 degrees, and hands crossed on the chest. The participant is asked to maintain a slightly raised (30°) flexed position for as long as possible. The time is measured with a stopwatch

  4 weeks

• Timed Up and Go Test

  The Timed Up and Go Test test is used to assess an individual's mobility level, balance, walking speed, and functional mobility. It is also frequently used for individuals at risk of falls. The participant sits in a standard-height chair. On the command "Go," the participant: Gets up from the chair, walks 3 meters forward, returns, and sits back down. The time it takes to complete this process is measured with a stopwatch.

  4 weeks

• 30-Second Chair Stand Test

  This test is used to assess lower extremity muscle strength and endurance. It also provides information about the individual's level of independence in activities of daily living. The participant sits upright in a standard-height chair, arms crossed across the chest. On the command "Go," the participant is asked to get up and sit down from the chair as many times as possible within 30 seconds. A score is obtained by counting the number of times the participant stands and sits down

  4 weeks

• 1-Minute Stair Climb Test

  This test provides information about an individual's cardiorespiratory endurance and lower extremity muscle strength. It is particularly preferred for functional assessments based on aerobic capacity. The participant attempts to climb a standard set of stairs at their own pace for 1 minute. The number of stairs climbed at the end of the time is recorded.

  4 weeks

Secondary Outcomes (2)

• Visual Analog Scale

  4 weeks

• Oswestry Low Back Pain Functional Disability Index

  4 weeks

Study Arms (1)

Chronic Low Back Pain

Participants diagnosed with nonspecific chronic low back pain who will undergo core stability and functional capacity assessments using two methods: (1) face-to-face clinical evaluation and (2) tele-assessment via video communication platforms.

Other: Assessment

Interventions

Assessment OTHER

This observational study compares two assessment methods used to evaluate core stability and functional capacity in individuals with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Participants undergo standardized clinical tests performed first through face-to-face assessment and then through tele-assessment using secure video communication platforms. The assessments include Plank Test, Side Plank Test, Biering-Sorensen Test, Trunk Flexor Endurance Test, Timed Up and Go (TUG), 30-Second Chair Stand Test, 1-Minute Stair Climb Test, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). No therapeutic intervention is administered; only evaluation procedures are performed.

Chronic Low Back Pain

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 18 Years - 65 Years
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: No
• Age Groups: Adult (18-64), Older Adult (65+)
• Sampling Method: Probability Sample

Study Population

Adults diagnosed with nonspecific chronic low back pain who meet the inclusion criteria and are able to participate in both face-to-face and tele-assessment sessions.

You may qualify if:

• 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.

You may not qualify if:

• 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.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Istinye University: lead

Study Sites (1)

Kubra Kardeş

Istanbul, 34010, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location

MeSH Terms

Interventions

Restraint, Physical

Intervention Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Behavior Control; Therapeutics; Immobilization; Investigative Techniques

Study Design

• Study Type: observational
• Observational Model: CASE ONLY
• Time Perspective: PROSPECTIVE
• Target Duration: 7 Days
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Principal Investigator

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: November 20, 2025
• First Posted: December 1, 2025
• Study Start: November 30, 2025
• Primary Completion: January 30, 2026
• Study Completion: February 20, 2026
• Last Updated: February 24, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-02

Locations

TU (1)