Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
Investigating the Effect of Different Types of Exercise on Upper Limb Functional Recovery in Patients with Right Hemisphere Damage Based on fNIRS
Published on: February 9, 2024
Modification of the upper limb functional index to a three-point response improves clinimetric properties
Charles Philip Gabel1, Lori A Michener2, Markus Melloh3
1Faculty of Science, Centre for Healthy Activities, Sport and Exercise, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Study Design:
Observational two-stage.
Introduction:
To achieve optimal clinimetric properties for outcome measures, both practical and psychometric, ongoing improvements are required.
Purpose Of The Study:
To evaluate if the Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) clinimetric properties are improved by modification to a three-point response option and to verify the factor structure.
Methods:
Stage 1, calibration (n=139) used ULFI dichotomous responses, and stage 2, validation (n=117) used a three-point response option. The clinimetric properties were compared in physical therapy outpatients with the QuickDASH as the reference standard. Repeated measurements were made at two to four weekly intervals.
Results:
The ULFI three-point response option improved reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (2,1)=0.98], internal consistency (alpha=0.92), QuickDASH concurrent validity (r=0.86), and responsiveness. Minimal detectable change (90% confidence interval) was 7.9%, and factor structure was unidimensional. Missing responses were <0.5%, and practical characteristics were unchanged.
Conclusions:
The enhanced reliability and reduced errors with unchanged practicality demonstrate the ULFI improvements through modification to a three-point response option.
Level Of Evidence:
2c.
