Article

The Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) is a self-report questionnaire
assessing activity limitations and participation restrictions resulting from an
upper limb musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). A French Canadian version of the ULFI (ULFI-FC) has recently demonstrated good internal consistency, and convergent
validity, as well as clinical applicability in a rehabilitation context where
clinicians have important time constraints. This study aimed to examine the
test-retest reliability and responsiveness of the ULFI-FC. METHODS: In order to
study the ULFI-FC's responsiveness, 60 participants completed the ULFI-FC and a
French Canadian version of the DASH (DASH-FC) twice at an interval of two to six
weeks, based on the evolution of their upper limb MSD. Half of the sample also
completed the ULFI-FC three days after the second assessment for the test-retest
reliability analysis. RESULTS: The ULFI-FC demonstrated high test-retest
reliability (ICC = 0.92-0.97) and good internal responsiveness (Cohen's d =
0.49-0.62; standardized responsive means = 0.60-0.88). External responsiveness
was further supported by moderate correlations of change scores with the DASH-FC
(r = 0.42-0.64). CONCLUSIONS: Study findings support the use of the ULFI-FC in
rehabilitation as an outcome measure to monitor activity limitations and
participation restrictions among French-speaking patients presenting with upper
limb MSD. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: The ULFI-FC
is a reliable and valid
tool with good responsiveness to change for assessing activity limitations and
participation restrictions in adults presenting with upper limb musculoskeletal
disorders. This tool can thus be useful in clinical and research settings. By exploring meaningful activities that are affected by patients' upper limb
musculoskeletal disorders, the tool's Patient Specific Index is particularly
relevant for clinicians adhering to a patient-centered approach.

Langue : ANGLAIS