Measuring upper limb disability for patients with neck pain: evaluation of the feasibility of the Single Arm Military Press (SAMP) test

Background Non-specific neck pain (NSNP) is frequently associated with upper limb disability (ULD). Consequently, evaluation of ULD using an outcome measure is necessary during the management of patients with NSNP. The Single Arm Military Press (SAMP) test is a performance-based ULD measure developed for populations with neck pain. During the SAMP test, patients are asked to repeatedly lift a weight above their head for 30 seconds. The number of repetitions is counted. Its clinical utility in a patient group is still unknown. Objective This study investigates the feasibility of the SAMP test from patients and clinicians’ perspectives. Methods Seventy female patients with NSNP were randomly allocated into one of three groups. Participants in each group completed the SAMP test using one of three proposed weights (½kg, 1kg or 1½kg). The feasibility of the SAMP test was established using structured qualitative exit feedback interviews for patients and administrating clinicians. Results Participants using ½kg achieved the highest number of repetitions, but a high proportion reported the weight as extremely light, whereas those who tested using the 1½kg achieved the lowest number of repetitions and participants reported the weight as being heavy. Participants tested using 1kg achieved an average number of repetitions and a high proportion reported the weight as acceptably heavy. Clinicians and patients reported that the SAMP test was efficient and convenient. Conclusion The 1kg SAMP test is feasible for use in female patients with NSNP. The measurement properties of the SAMP test should be determined in a patient group.