Validity and reliability of an immersive virtual reality adaptation of the 6-minute pegboard and ring test.

Abstract

Background and aim: Virtual reality offers new clinical assessment and rehabilitation options that can complement or, in some cases, replace traditional methods. However, the applicability of using virtual reality tools for assessment of upper limb functional capacity has not been fully explored. We therefore developed an immersive virtual reality adaptation of the 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test (6PBRT-VR). The aim of the study was to test the validity and reliability of the 6PBRT-VR for the assessment of upper extremity functional capacity, and to assess the performance and feasibility of the proposed tool.

Methods: Thirty healthy young adults were included in the study. The participants performed the classical 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test first and then the 6PBRT-VR. The test-retest reliability of the 6PBRT-VR was assessed on intraclass correlation coefficient. Concurrent validity was assessed on the correlation between the 6PBRT-VR test-retest scores (number of rings moved) and the correlation between the scores from the classical 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test and the 6PBRT-VR. Convergent validity was assessed on correlations with handgrip strength and the total Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score. Cardiorespiratory responses were also measured (at baseline and after each test). Perceived arm fatigue was assessed on the Modified Borg Scale.

Results: The 6PBRT-VR exhibited excellent test-retest reliability, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.866 (95% confidence interval 0.737-0.934). Mean 6PBRT-VR score correlated strongly with the mean score of the classical 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test (r = 0.817, p < 0.001). A significant association was found between the 6PBRT-VR and the classical 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test in terms of variations in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and Modified Borg Scale score (p < 0.001). Mean 6PBRT-VR score showed moderate correlations with right (r = 0.571, p = 0.001) and left handgrip strength (r = 0.550, p = 0.002).

Conclusion: The 6PBRT-VR is a reliable and valid virtual tool for assessing upper-extremity functional capacity in young adults.