Modification of the Upper Limb Functional Index to a Three-point Response Improves Clinimetric Properties

• Published in: Journal of hand therapy 2010, Vol.23 (1), p.41-52
• Main Authors: Gabel, Charles Philip, MSc, Michener, Lori A., PhD, PT, ATC, Melloh, Markus, MD, MPH, Burkett, Brendan, PhD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Comparative analysis; Confidence intervals; Disability Evaluation; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Female; Focus groups; Humans; Injuries; Likert scale; Male; Middle Aged; Musculoskeletal Diseases - physiopathology; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Physical therapy; Prospective Studies; Psychometrics; Reproducibility of Results; Retrospective Studies; Studies; Surveys and Questionnaires; Therapists; Upper Extremity - physiopathology
• ISSN: 0894-1130; 1545-004X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2009.09.007

Abstract Study Design Observational two-stage. Introduction To achieve optimal clinimetric properties for outcome measures, both practical and psychometric, ongoing improvements are required. Purpose of the Study To evaluate if the Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) clinimetric properties are improved by modification to a three-point response option and to verify the factor structure. Methods Stage 1, calibration ( n = 139) used ULFI dichotomous responses, and stage 2, validation ( n = 117) used a three-point response option. The clinimetric properties were compared in physical therapy outpatients with the QuickDASH as the reference standard. Repeated measurements were made at two to four weekly intervals. Results The ULFI three-point response option improved reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (2,1) = 0.98], internal consistency ( α = 0.92), QuickDASH concurrent validity ( r = 0.86), and responsiveness. Minimal detectable change (90% confidence interval) was 7.9%, and factor structure was unidimensional. Missing responses were