Validity And Reliability Of The Four Square Step Test In Individuals With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Recruiting · NCT07264101 · Observational (researchers observe without assigning treatment) · Lead sponsor: Inonu University
View the official record on ClinicalTrials.gov →What this trial is about
This cross-sectional observational study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Four Square Step Test (FSST) in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, the study will investigate the associations between FSST performance and clinical parameters including disease activity, quality of life, pain, and muscle strength. All assessments will be conducted according to a pre-defined standardized protocol. The order of measurement tools will be randomized to minimize potential bias, and sufficient rest intervals will be provided between tests to prevent fatigue and performance effects. Participants will include individuals aged 18-65 years with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis according to the ACR/EULAR 2010 classification criteria, who have been followed for at least 6 months, have had no major changes in treatment regimen in the last 4 weeks (e.g., initiation or change of DMARDs/biologics, high-dose steroid increase), can walk at least 10 meters independently, have a Mini-Mental State Examination score of 24 or higher, and are able to follow verbal instructions in Turkish to comply with study procedures. Appropriate statistical methods will be applied to assess validity, reliability, and associations between FSST and clinical parameters.
Who can take part
Inclusion criteria
- Age between 18 and 65 years
- Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis according to ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria
- No major changes in treatment regimen (e.g., initiation or modification of DMARDs/biologics, high-dose steroid increase) within the last 4 weeks
- Ability to walk at least 10 meters without assistance
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24
- Ability to understand and follow instructions in Turkish
Exclusion criteria
- Participants who cannot understand or follow verbal instructions in Turkish
- Participants with a history of neurological, vestibular, or serious orthopedic disease
- Participants whose physical participation is limited due to acute infection or systemic disease
- Participants who have had lower extremity surgery or a history of serious injury within the last 6 months
Where it is running
1 location listed.
- Inonu University Turgut Ozal Medical Center - Malatya, Turkey (Türkiye)