Defining Effect Size Thresholds for OR, RR, and η² in Physiotherapy Studies

(1) Background: Effect size interpretation in physiotherapy research varies across statistical models, hindering comparability between studies using linear, logistic, and variance-based analyses. Unified, discipline-specific thresholds are needed to harmonise interpretation and support consistent sample size planning in clinical trials. The aim is to estimate physiotherapy-specific reference values for odds ratio (OR), relative risk (RR), and η²/ηp² based on empirically established thresholds for Cohen’s d (0.1, 0.4, and 0.8). (2) Methods: Cohen’s d values were transformed into corresponding effect size metrics using deterministic algebraic relationships. Specifically, OR, RR, and η² were derived from Cohen’s d under selected baseline risks (p₀ = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5). Calculations were performed in R 4.3.1 assuming equal group sizes and homogeneity of variances. (3) Results: OR thresholds were 1.20 (small), 2.07 (medium), and 4.27 (large). For RR, at p₀ = 0.1, thresholds were 1.18, 1.95, and 3.22; at p₀ = 0.5, they were 1.09, 1.35, and 1.62. Corresponding η²/ηp² values were 0.003, 0.039, and 0.138. (4) Conclusions: The derived thresholds form a coherent, numerically anchored framework linking linear, logistic, and variance-based effect sizes. This approach standardises interpretation across statistical models and strengthens methodological consistency in physiotherapy clinical research.