Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Nigerian (IGBO) version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (I-DASH)

Abstract

Introduction The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire is a self-administered region-specific outcome questionnaire developed to measure upper extremity disability and symptoms. The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt and validate the Igbo version of the DASH in order to enhance its use in the Igbo-speaking population. Method This cross-sectional survey involved 100 participants (56 males, 44 females) with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders, in the South-Eastern part of Nigeria. Participants completed both English and Igbo versions of the DASH on two occasions. Internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach’s alpha. Test–retest reliability was analysed by intraclass coefficient (ICC) and the Bland and Altman method. Construct validity was investigated with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient, and a principal component analysis was performed. Alpha was set at 0.05. Results Test–retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.99). The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was high (0.979) for the entire items on the scale. There was a significant strong correlation (r = 0.994; p = 0.001) between the scores obtained on the English and Igbo versions of the DASH indicating excellent construct validity. Thirty linear components were identified within the data set. The communalities were above 0.4. Conclusion Principal component analysis of the Igbo DASH revealed a two-factor structure, having fulfilled all necessary conditions. The Igbo version of the DASH questionnaire is a valid and reliable outcome measure for individuals with upper extremity musculoskeletal disabilities.