An investigation to examine the inter-tester and intra-tester reliability of the Rolimeter knee tester, and its sensitivity in identifying knee joint laxity

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Rolimeter knee tester (Aircast, Europe) as reliable and clinically sensitive tool for identifying and quantifying knee joint laxity utilising a sample of both known ACLD and normal knees.

Methods: Thirty matched subjects (15 known ACLD and 15 normal subjects) were tested for knee joint laxity using the Rolimeter. Each subject was measured at both 90 degrees and 30 degrees of knee flexion, by each of the six investigators. This was then repeated again by all six investigators so that inter-tester and intra-tester reliability could be examined.

Results: Results showed that there was good reliability between testers, and intra-tester reliability was good for both left and right knees in both 90 degrees and 30 degrees of flexion. Results also demonstrated a high level of sensitivity for determining knee joint laxity in ACLD compared to normal knees.

Conclusion: The Rolimeter knee tester is a reliable device for quantifying knee joint laxity, and is sensitive enough to identify anterior cruciate ligament deficiency.