Faculty Publications

Issues In Outcomes Research: An Overview Of Randomization Techniques For Clinical Trials

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Block randomization, Covariate adaptive randomization, Minimization, Simple randomization, Stratified randomization

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Athletic Training

Volume

43

Issue

2

First Page

215

Last Page

221

Abstract

Objective: To review and describe randomization techniques used in clinical trials, including simple, block, stratified, and covariate adaptive techniques. Background: Clinical trials are required to establish treatment efficacy of many athletic training procedures. In the past, we have relied on evidence of questionable scientific merit to aid the determination of treatment choices. Interest in evidence-based practice is growing rapidly within the athletic training profession, placing greater emphasis on the importance of well-conducted clinical trials. One critical component of clinical trials that strengthens results is random assignment of participants to control and treatment groups. Although randomization appears to be a simple concept, issues of balancing sample sizes and controlling the influence of covariates a priori are important. Various techniques have been developed to account for these issues, including block, stratified randomization, and covariate adaptive techniques. Advantages: Athletic training researchers and scholarly clinicians can use the information presented in this article to better conduct and interpret the results of clinical trials. Implementing these techniques will increase the power and validity of findings of athletic medicine clinical trials, which will ultimately improve the quality of care provided. © by the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Inc.

Department

Department of Special Education

Original Publication Date

1-1-2008

DOI of published version

10.4085/1062-6050-43.2.215

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