Validity and Reliability of a Novel Force Plate Table
Keywords:
Weighing machine, Force table, Manual therapy, MobilizationAbstract
Background: Manual Therapy is an important part of a physical therapy program. However, the
standard physical therapy teaching program involving manual forces, especially in practice, has
not been objectively established regarding accuracy and precision.
Objectives: This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of a prototype manual therapy
table, equipped with a force plate and force display.
Material and Methods: Weights of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 kg. were placed consecutively on a prototype
massage table equipped with a force plate and force display, and compared with a standard
scale’s readings. Each weight was held for 5-second periods and repeated in triplicate to
determine precision.
Results: The prototype massage table had a high degree of reliability and validity in reporting
applied forces (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.857).
Conclusion: The prototype massage table with force plate and display, can enhance physical
therapy training, providing practical real time force feedback, allowing trainees to adjust their
force. The table is highly reliable and may be useful for the physical therapy teaching process.
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