Intra-day and inter-day reliabilities of the 0° and 45° adductor squeeze tests using hand-held dynamometry

Purpose: Determine the intra-day and inter-day reliabilities of the 0° and 45° short-lever adductor squeeze tests using hand-held dynamometry. Design: Test–retest reliability Methods: Seventeen (n = 17) academy basketball players (age range: 16–22 years) were recruited for this study. Participants performed three maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC) in the short-lever position in 0° and 45° of hip flexion. Adductor force and torque values were assessed for intra- and inter-day reliabilities and ability to detect the smallest worthwhile change (SWC). Results: Both test positions demonstrated excellent intra-day and inter-day reliabilities (ICC > 0.90, CV < 10%). Both test positions were capable of detecting the SWC using adductor force but not torque measures. The peak force, first trial and the average force of three trials demonstrated excellent test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.90, CV < 10%). There was no significant difference in strength score when the device was placed on either the dominant or non-dominant limb (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions: Measuring adductor squeeze force in the 0° and 45° short-lever positions is reliable using hand-held dynamometry and both test positions are capable of detecting the SWC. The 0° test may illicit greater force values compared to the 45° test than previously reported. Using hand-held dynamometry, the device may be positioned against either the dominant or non-dominant limb.