[Predictive value of Matthiass' arm-raising test]

Abstract

Within the framework of a dissertation it was intended--among other things--to investigate the correlation between the "Armvorhaltetest" according to Matthiass and the maximal isometric force (MVC) of the back extensors, the abdominal muscles, the hip flexors and the hip extensors. First of all it could be shown that, at the beginning of the "Armvorhaltetest" according to Matthiass, tall, light people move forward their hip in a manner typical for persons with a weak posture. Apart from the above mentioned result only a weak correlation exists between the "Armvorhaltetest" according to Matthiass and the MVC of the abdominal muscles. Furthermore the expected correlation between the "Armvorhaltetest" and the force of the back extensors could not be established. These findings suggest that the applicability of the "Armvorhaltetest" according to Matthiass as a method to diagnose posture faults in general or to test the force of the back extensors in particular has to be called into question.