The single-leg stand-up test as a simple and effective tool for assessing motor function in children -KID locomo study-

Abstract

Background

Early detection of motor function issues in children is crucial for timely interventions and prevention of long-term health problems. We evaluated the effectiveness of the Kodomo Locomo check and the Single-Leg Stand-Up Test (SLSUT) in assessing motor function in children, using the standardized New Physical Fitness Test as a reference measure.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 871 children (436 boys, 435 girls) aged 6–15 years from rural Japan. Participants underwent the Kodomo Locomo check, the SLSUT, and the New Physical Fitness Test. We analyzed correlations between these assessments using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and ordinal logistic regression.

Results

The Kodomo Locomo check identified 26.4 % of participants as having potential motor function issues, with significant sex differences (33.7 % boys, 19.1 % girls, p < 0.001). The SLSUT demonstrated moderate correlations with New Physical Fitness Test grades (ρ = 0.48 for boys, ρ = 0.46 for girls, p < 0.001), and the Kodomo Locomo check showed weak correlations (ρ = 0.22 for boys, ρ = 0.28 for girls, p < 0.001). Ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed that for every 10 cm increase in SLSUT height, the odds of being in a lower grade category in the New Physical Fitness Test were approximately two times higher for both sexes (OR 2.08, 95 % CI: 1.82–2.38 for boys; OR 2.00, 95 % CI: 1.75–2.27 for girls, p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

The SLSUT was shown to have a moderate correlation with overall physical fitness, suggesting its potential as a comprehensive tool for assessing motor function in children. The Kodomo Locomo check, while useful in initial screening, had significant sex-based discrepancies in rates of positivity, potentially causing bias in motor function assessments. Both tests are indicated to have potential in complementary roles in pediatric motor function assessment. Further research will seek to establish age- and sex-specific norms for the SLSUT and investigate the longitudinal predictive value.