Between-Day Reliability of Kinematic Variables Using Markerless Motion Capture for Single-Leg Squat and Single-Leg Landing Tasks

Background Markerless motion capture has the potential to repeatedly collect biomechanical data during activities associated with injuries. Few studies have assessed the reliability of this technology during single-leg tasks. Purpose The primary aim was to examine the between-day reliability of trunk and lower limb kinematics during single-leg squat and single-leg landing tasks using markerless motion capture. The secondary aim was to examine the between-day reliability of the same protocol using marker-based motion capture. Design Reliability Methods Nineteen recreational athletes performed all tasks in two sessions, one week apart. Joint angles of trunk, hip, knee, and ankle were processed using Theia3D. A separate study (10 different participants) evaluated the reliability of marker-based motion capture. In both technologies, full curve analysis was examined using root mean square difference (RMSD) and discrete point analysis (initial contact and peak knee flexion) using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM). Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was also used for full curve analysis in markerless motion capture. Results For full curve analysis, markerless motion capture demonstrated low mean RMSD for all joints and planes in both SLS (3.6˚±1.3˚) and landing tasks (forward=3.2˚±1.3˚; medial=3.4˚±1.7˚). SPM showed statistical difference for bilateral hip flexion (full curve) and unilateral hip adduction, rotation, and knee flexion during a percentage of landing tasks. For discrete point analysis, ICC mean indicated moderate to good reliability (SLS= 0.77; forward landing= 0.83; medial landing= 0.80) with low mean SEM values (SLS=3.1°±1.3˚; forward landing=2.3˚±0.9°; medial landing=2.3˚±0.8˚). Marker-based motion capture showed slightly higher mean RMSD (SLS=4.2˚±1.8˚; forward landing=3.5˚±1.0˚; medial landing=3.3˚±0.9) and SEM values (SLS=4.1˚±2.2˚; forward landing=2.7˚±1.2°; medial landing=2.8˚±1.2˚). ICC mean showed good relative reliability (SLS=0.90; forward landing=0.88; medial landing=0.88). Hip flexion presented values >5° across tasks and technologies (RMSD and SEM= 5° to 8°). Conclusions Markerless motion capture using Theia3D can reliably measure single-leg tasks with measurement errors comparable to marker-based motion capture. The low measurement error provides confidence for the regular monitoring of athletes during single-leg tasks. Level of evidence 3