Are neck pain scales and questionnaires compatible with the international classification of functioning, disability and health? A systematic review.

PURPOSE

To identify neck-pain-specific questionnaires and scales that measure functioning and disability and assess whether their contents are comparable to the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF).

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in LILACS, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SPORTSDISCUS databases, identifying questionnaires and scales used to assess neck-related functioning and disability from 1966 to November 2007. Each item of each scale or questionnaire was extracted and classified according to the ICF categories.

RESULTS

The databases yielded a total of 888 articles, of which seven questionnaires were identified and included in the review. A total of 74 items were analyzed, 27 linked to body function, 46 to activities and participation, 1 to environmental factors, and 5 to non-classified items. While the pain disability index tends to focus on limitations to body functions, the functional rating index and the Copenhagen neck functional disability scale appear to be limited to measuring activity. Three questionnaires (the neck Bournemouth Questionnaire, the neck disability index, and the neck pain and disability scale) have demonstrated a well-balanced distribution of items across the ICF components.

CONCLUSION

Most identified questionnaires reflect limitations or restrictions in one component only. These results provide valuable information on the content quality of these questionnaires for health-care providers and researchers.