Journal of Hand Therapy
Volume 23, Issue 1 , Pages 31-40, January 2010

A Comparison of the Ability of Two Upper Extremity Assessments to Measure Change in Function

  • Leigh A. Lehman, PhD, OTR/L

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationCorrespondence and reprint requests to Leigh A. Lehman, PhD, OTR/L, Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina Upstate, 800 University Way, Spartanburg, SC 29303.

Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina Upstate, Spartanburg, South Carolina

Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida

Rehabilitation Outcomes Research Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veteran's Affairs System, Gainesville, Florida

Rehabilitation Outcomes Research Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veteran's Affairs System, Gainesville, Florida

Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida

published online 30 November 2009.

Abstract 

Study Design

Retrospective Measurement Comparison.

Introduction

Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders affect millions, thus, discerning optimal assessments for measuring change in upper extremity function is critical.

Purpose of the Study

To compare responsiveness (ability to measure change) of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI).

Methods

Statistical analyses included Rasch analysis to place the instruments on the same scale, analysis of variance to compare change scores, correlations to compare change scores with global ratings, and the use of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine meaningful change scores and overall error.

Results

Change scores on the DASH and UEFI and correlations between change scores and global ratings were similar. Areas under the ROC curves for the DASH and UEFI were 67% and 65%, respectively.

Conclusions

Neither assessment has a clear advantage over the other when measuring clinical change.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.

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PII: S0894-1130(09)00126-4

doi:10.1016/j.jht.2009.09.006

Journal of Hand Therapy
Volume 23, Issue 1 , Pages 31-40, January 2010