Comparing responsiveness of the quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand and the upper limb functional index.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to measure clinical change in persons with upper extremity (UE) musculoskeletal conditions and to determine if the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) or the Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) was a more responsive outcome tool. The objective was to select one tool that was responsive and practical for the occupational therapy (OT) setting.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were patients (N=27) who had musculoskeletal conditions, were age 18 years or older, and received outpatient OT.

METHODS

Participants received standard OT treatment for UE musculoskeletal conditions, completing the ULFI and QuickDASH at evaluation and discharge.

RESULTS

Paired t-tests showed significant change of 25.1 points in the QuickDASH and 23.6 points in the ULFI. Work module showed significant change of 26.2 points.

CONCLUSIONS

The QuickDASH was a more responsive tool compared to the ULFI. Participants made significant improvements in work performance as measured by the QuickDASH Work Module. Large effect sizes and standardized response means of the QuickDASH and the ULFI change scores showed both tools were responsive outcome measures for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions. Although the QuickDASH was more responsive, therapists preferred the ULFI as an efficient outcome measure with client-centered goals.