Validity and Reliability Testing of the Romberg Test Using a Methodological Approach in Stroke Patients

Introduction: One of the challenges post-stroke patients face is a decrease in balance, both static and dynamic. Evaluating static balance is crucial to prevent the risk of falls in stroke patients. One tool used to assess static balance is the Romberg test. A good measurement tool requires high validity and reliability. This study aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Romberg test to measure static balance in stroke patients. Methods: This study employed an observational research design with a methodological approach, conducted at Pandan Arang Hospital in Boyolali from September to October 2024. The study population included stroke patients aged over 46 years. A total of 33 subjects were selected using purposive sampling, adhering to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive-analytic methods. The validity of the Romberg test was assessed using the Pearson Product Moment, while reliability was measured using Cronbach’s Alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) to determine internal consistency. Results: The intra-rater reliability of Cronbach's Alpha for open and closed eyes tests was ?=0.947 and ?=0.994, respectively, indicating high consistency (ICC=0.973 and ICC=0.997). Similarly, the inter-rater reliability for both open and closed eyes tests showed excellent Cronbach’s Alpha values (?=1.000) and high consistency (ICC=1.000). Validity analysis using the Pearson Product Moment for open and closed eyes tests demonstrated high validity (p<0.001, r=0.947 and r=0.994, respectively). Conclusion: The Romberg test is proven valid and reliable for measuring static balance in stroke patients. Keywords: validity, reliability, Romberg test, balance, stroke