Validity and Reliability of the 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test (6PBRT) in Adults With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by repetitive episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep resulting in intermittent hypoxia, sleep fragmentation, and increased sympathetic activity. These physiological disturbances may negatively affect physical performance, daily functioning, and exercise tolerance. Although previous studies have investigated balance, gait, and overall physical performance in individuals with OSA, upper extremity functional capacity has received limited attention.

The 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test (6PBRT) is a functional performance test that evaluates upper extremity endurance during unsupported arm activity. The test has been used primarily in patients with chronic respiratory diseases to assess functional limitation during activities involving arm elevation. However, the validity and reliability of the 6PBRT have not been investigated in individuals with OSA.

This observational methodological study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the 6PBRT in adults diagnosed with OSA using polysomnography. Participants diagnosed with OSA will be recruited from the sleep center of Mardin Training and Research Hospital. Demographic and clinical data including age, sex, body mass index, and comorbidities will be recorded. Polysomnographic parameters including apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), minimum oxygen saturation (SpO₂), and the percentage of sleep time with oxygen saturation below 90% (T90) will be collected from medical records.

Upper extremity functional capacity will be assessed using the 6PBRT. Participants will perform the test according to standardized procedures. Test-retest reliability will be evaluated by repeating the test under similar conditions. In addition, clinical scales including the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ) will be administered.

The validity of the 6PBRT will be investigated by examining its relationship with polysomnographic parameters and clinical scales. Reliability will be evaluated using test-retest analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients. The results of this study will provide important information regarding the measurement properties of the 6PBRT in individuals with OSA and may support its use as a practical tool for assessing upper extremity functional capacity in clinical practice.

Inclusion criteria

• Being between 18 and 65 years of age

Having a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) confirmed by polysomnography

Having sufficient cognitive ability to understand and follow the test instructions

Having adequate shoulder range of motion to elevate the upper extremities above head level for performing the 6PBRT

Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study and providing written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of neurological diseases that may significantly affect upper extremity function (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy)

Severe orthopedic conditions limiting upper extremity movement (e.g., advanced shoulder pathology, recent surgery, severe contracture)

Unstable cardiopulmonary conditions (e.g., recent myocardial infarction, decompensated heart failure, uncontrolled arrhythmia, acute COPD/asthma exacerbation)

Acute infection, febrile illness, or severe clinical exacerbation within the last 4 weeks

Pain severe enough to interfere with the test or any clinical condition preventing the safe administration of the test