Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

OBJECTIVES: To review the measurement properties of outcome measures of function or mobility currently used in the context of spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS: A keyword search of multiple databases to identify original papers. Papers were reviewed where they had included an evaluation, of people with SCI, of the psychometric properties of an outcome measure, which included functional or mobility domains.Information was extracted concerning item generation, ease and intended method of use and scale properties, in particular: reliability, validity and responsiveness. Conclusions were reached concerning the psychometric properties of each instrument. RESULTS: Eight outcome measures were identified (plus adapted versions). Five had originally been developed specifically for evaluating patients with SCI (chiefly reflecting clinicians' perspectives), the remaining three had not. The psychometric properties of the instruments varied, with some mixed/contradictory evidence likely relating to differing study sample sizes, characteristics and variable quality. Instruments also varied in stated purpose or emphasis. CONCLUSION: In addition to weighing evidence concerning measurement properties, users need to consider the stated purpose and item content of instruments in relation to their specific aims. With regard to the former, while reviewed instruments had some flaws, the Spinal cord Independence Measure (revised version III), Quadriplegia Index of Function (Short-form), Needs Assessment Checklist and SIP68 appeared the best, despite limited evidence of their responsiveness.

Original publication

DOI

10.1038/sc.2008.50

Type

Journal article

Journal

Spinal Cord

Publication Date

12/2008

Volume

46

Pages

768 - 780

Keywords

Disability Evaluation, Goals, Humans, Outcome Assessment (Health Care), Paralysis, Physical Therapy Modalities, Predictive Value of Tests, Psychometrics, Reproducibility of Results, Spinal Cord Injuries