Background: The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is the most commonly used clinical test to measure walking distance, reflecting submaximal aerobic capacity in patients with cardiopulmonary disease, neurological or musculoskeletal impairments, or muscular dystrophy. The purpose was to summarize the findings on the reliability and measuring change of the 6MWT in adult patients. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane Library. It included studies on the measurement properties of the 6MWT that met the inclusion criteria. Results: 29 studies were included. Intra-rater reliability of the 6MWT was high to excellent and inter-rater reliability was excellent. Minimal detectable change ranged from 10.2 m (in patients with total hip arthroplasty) to 147.5 m (in patients with unilateral lower limb amputation). The length of the walking path affected the walking distance and the minimal detectable change, but not the reliability. Conclusions: The 6MWT is a reliable outcome measure for patients with various impairments. Walking distance and minimal detectable change depend on the type and stage of pathological condition, and the length of the walking path. A standard procedure for 6MWT on a 30-meters walking path, with standard instructions and encouragement, is recommended.
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