Abstract
CONTEXT
Reaction time is commonly assessed postconcussion through a computerized neurocognitive battery. Although this measure is sensitive to postconcussion deficits, it is not clear if computerized reaction time reflects the dynamic reaction time necessary to compete effectively and safely during sporting activities. Functional reaction time assessments may be useful postconcussion, but reliability must be determined before clinical implementation.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the test-retest reliability of a functional reaction time assessment battery and to determine if reaction time improved between sessions.
DESIGN
Cohort.
SETTING
Laboratory.
PARTICIPANTS
Forty-one participants (21 men and 20 women) completed 2 time points. Participants, on average, were 22.5 (2.1) years old, 72.5 (11.9) cm tall, had a mass of 71.0 (13.7) kg, and were mostly right leg and hand dominant (92.7%).
INTERVENTIONS
Participants completed 2 clinical reaction time tests (computerized Stroop and drop stick) and 5 functional reaction time tests (gait, jump landing, single-leg hop, anticipated cut, and unanticipated cut) across 2 sessions. Drop stick and functional reaction time assessments were performed in single (motor task only) and dual task (motor task with cognitive task).
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Reaction time (in seconds) was calculated during all assessments. Test-retest reliability was determined using 2-way mixed-effects intraclass correlation coefficients (3, k). Paired samples t tests compared mean reaction time between sessions.
RESULTS
Test-retest reliability was moderate to excellent for all reaction time outcomes (intraclass correlation coefficients [3, k] range = .766-.925). Several statistically significant between-session mean differences were observed, but effect sizes were negligible to small (d range = 0.05-0.44).
CONCLUSIONS
The functional reaction time assessment battery displayed similar reliability to the standard computerized reaction time assessment battery and may provide important postinjury information, but more research is needed to determine clinical utility.
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