Clinimetric evaluation of the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) and QuickDASH questionnaires for patients with shoulder disorders

Background:

The disability of the shoulder, arm, and hand (DASH) and shortened version QuickDASH instruments are self-report questionnaires designed to measure physical function and symptoms in patients with upper-extremity disorders. An understanding of the clinimetric properties of these instruments may guide clinicians and researchers in their use.

Objective:

To systematically review the clinimetric properties of the DASH and QuickDASH for use among individuals with shoulder disorders.

Methods:

A search was conducted using Medline, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, AMED, and PEDro from 1996 to July 2013 using the following keywords independently and in combination: disabilities of the shoulder, arm, and hand; DASH, QuickDASH, and shoulder. Articles retained were inclusive of at least one clinimetric property of the DASH or QuickDASH as the main focus of the study. Articles retained for review after meeting inclusion criteria were then cross referenced.

Results:

Eighteen articles were ultimately retained for the review. The clinimetric properties of the DASH and QuickDASH were comparable across various shoulder pathologies including both non-operative and post-surgical cohorts. Both instruments possess good reliability and internal consistency. Construct validity is present in both instruments when correlated to other physical and non-physical outcome measures. Moreover, each instrument is responsive and sensitive to change when compared to global and specific measures of improvement. The administrative and respondent burden is somewhat higher for the DASH when compared to the QuickDASH.

Conclusions:

Both instruments possess desirable clinimetric properties including reliability, validity, and responsiveness. The QuickDASH offers a more efficient means of identifying baseline function and monitoring outcomes.