Purpose: In patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), weakness of the upper limb (UL) muscles has a significant impact on daily activities and body functions. This problem necessitates a screening tool that can be used quickly and easily in clinical situations, such as the Upper Limb Short Questionnaire (ULSQ). However, its validity and reliability as a clinical measure have not yet been evaluated.
Materials and methods: The ULSQ was initially administered in face-to-face interviews, and then by telephone four weeks later. Lower limb and UL body functions were assessed by the Vignos and modified Brooke scales, respectively.
Results: A total of 160 patients participated in the initial ULSQ interview; 132 patients completed the follow-up interview. Construct validity was confirmed by exploratory and subsequent confirmatory factor analyses. The UL function component sum score correlated with the modified Brooke scale score (Kendall's Tau 0.64, p < 0.001). The total and component (UL function, pain, and stiffness) sum scores were higher in non-ambulators than in ambulators. The reliability was acceptable, as determined by internal consistency and test-retest agreement.
Conclusion: The ULSQ is a valid and reliable measurement tool for screening UL function, pain, and stiffness in patients with DMD in clinical settings.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe Upper Limb Short Questionnaire (ULSQ) for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) can be easily used in clinical settings.The ULSQ comprises 14 items that assess upper limb function, pain, and stiffness in patients with DMD and is a valid and reliable assessment tool for screening purposes.The sum score of the upper limb function component (ULSQ 1-5; 1 point per item) could be used to measure activity limitations.
Keywords: Duchenne muscular dystrophy; Factor analysis; Function; Pain; Stiffness; Upper limb.