A systematic review and meta-analysis of the reliability and validity of sensorimotor measurement instruments in people with chronic low back pain

Previous studies reported that deficits in the sensorimotor system could be a contributing factor for chronic low back pain (CLBP). There is the number of clinically practicable sensorimotor measurement instruments (SMIs ) are available, but the extent and the quality of the work have not been systematically reviewed. Therefore in this meta-analysis, it was showed that two-point discrimination, laterality judgment, and movement control tests are the greatest level of validity for people with CLBP. 

The problems in the sensorimotor system and its central and peripheral processing of the affected body part viewed as one of the major contributing factors to chronic low back pain (CLBP). This makes the evaluation of sensorimotor important by reliable and validensorimotor measurement instruments. This study involves the assessment of the validity and reliability of sensorimotor measurement instruments for individuals suffered from CLBP.  

The COSMIN guidelines were used to perform the systematic review. The studies involved the determination of clinimetric properties of sensorimotor tests among CLBP patients were selected. Two independent reviewers rated the quality of methodological survey by using the COSMIN 4-point rating checklist.

A total of 10 studies comprising six sensorimotor measurement instruments with outcomes for known-groups validity, reliability/measurement error, and convergent validity were included in the analysis. The quality of the methodological study was poor to good with only one study ranked as good. Inadequate evidence was recorded regarding the quality to evaluate convergent validity or reliability/measurement error. Moderate evidence was noticed regarding laterality judgement, Two-point discrimination, and movement control tests supporting their potential to differentiate between healthy individuals and those with CLBP.

The highest level of known-groups validity for individuals with CLBP was demonstrated by laterality judgment, two-point discrimination, and movement control tests. But, this validity data should be elucidated with caution as the reliability of these measurement tools has yet to be confirmed. More analysis is required to assess the clinimetric properties of these sensorimotor techniques.