Lower Limb Functional Index Research Articles

Are Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries Validated for Spanish Language and Culture?

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been adopted as a way to measure patient self-rated physical function and health status for patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Although multiple PROMs exist and have been translated into various languages, the cross-cultural adaptation and validity of these PROMs for Spanish-speaking patients is unknown. To evaluate the adaptation quality and psychometric properties of Spanish-language adaptations of PROMs for patients with ACL injuries. Scoping review; Level of evidence, 3. Under PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we reviewed published studies related to adaptation quality and psychometric properties of Spanish PROMs in patients with ACL injuries. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Guidelines for the Process of Cross-Cultural Adaptation of Self-Reported Measures, the Quality Criteria for Psychometric Properties of Health Status Questionnaires, and the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. The level of evidence for each PROM was determined based on the number of studies, methodological quality, consistency of results, and sample size. The initial search strategy identified 5687 articles. After removal of duplicates, 1882 titles were screened, and 114 articles were assessed for eligibility. Six articles were selected for final review, comprising 4 PROMs: the Lysholm knee score, the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI), the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and the Lower Limb Functional Index. Three studies followed all 6 processes for cross-cultural adaptation. None of the studies demonstrated all 14 domains required for cross-cultural validity (eg, description of translator expertise). The ACL-RSI achieved the highest level of evidence, with 3 of 9 domains demonstrating moderate evidence. This review identified 4 instruments that have been translated for Spanish-speaking patients with ACL injuries, none of which demonstrated appropriate adaptation or robust psychometric properties. The study highlights the need for improvement in PROMs for Spanish-speaking patients and the potential for mismeasurement and inappropriate application of PROM results in patients with ACL injuries.

Validation of the Polish versions of the Lower Limb Task Questionnaire, Lower Limb Functional Index, and Lower Limb Functional Index-10

BackgroundPhysicians who treat patients with lower limb diseases should pay attention not only to the patients’ clinical condition but also to their individual needs and expectations. For this purpose, many different questionnaires can be employed. This study aimed to validate the Lower Limb Task Questionnaire (LLTQ), Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), and Lower Limb Functional Index-10 (LLFI-10) for their use in Polish conditions and to perform a mutual comparison and analysis of differences in subjective assessments by patients who undergo hip or knee arthroplasty. MethodsThe LLTQ, LLFI, and LLFI-10 were translated into Polish. A total of 103 patients who qualified for hip or knee arthroplasty at a University Hospital in from 2019 to 2021 were included in this study. The patients were asked to complete the Polish versions of the LLTQ, LLFI, LLFI-10, Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and Short Form-36 four times – twice before and twice after their surgeries. ResultsThe Polish versions of the LLTQ, LLFI, and LLFI-10 had good psychometric properties. One year after surgery, the Cohen's standard response mean revealed high improvement of limb functionality and thus quality of life among all patients. We observed better treatment outcomes among patients who had hip osteoarthritis. ConclusionsThe questionnaires were validated and can be used both in everyday health practice and in further research in Poland.

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Persian version of the Lower Limb Functional Index

Backgroundthe Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) is a regional patient reported outcome measure (PROM) for evaluation of lower limb musculoskeletal functional status. No Persian-language (LLFI-Pr) version is available. ObjectivesLLFI translation and cross-cultural adaptation to Persian and psychometric property evaluation. Study designprospective diagnostic assessment. Methodsto establish the LLFI-Pr face and content validity, double forward-backward translation protocols were used plus cognitive interviews and the ‘content validity index'(CVI). Psychometric properties were determined from a convenience sample (n = 307, age 47.18 ± 11.52 years, female = 58.3%) that concurrently completed the LLFI-Pr and Persian Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS-Pr). Test-retest reliability (ICC2,1, sub-sample, n = 64) was determined during a non-intervention period of 3–7 days. Internal consistency used Cronbach's Alpha (α), error used MDC90/95 from the SEM, and construct validity used Pearson's r between the LLFI-Pr and LEFS-Pr. Construct validity used exploratory factor analysis (EFA, suppression = 0.30) with non-Gaussian distribution protocols. Resultspsychometric properties were high for test-retest reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.90) and internal consistency (α = 0.77), moderate for construct validity (r = 0.63), with no floor or ceiling effects, error found SEM = 1.60, MDC90 = 3.7% and MDC95 = 4.42%. A two-factor (EFA) structure (total-variance = 22.01%), that consequently cannot be summated, was determined where five-items failed consistent factor-loading leaving a 20-item version with a high original-LLFI total-equivalency (r = 0.97). However, the general/region-specific item-ratio reduced from the recognized 60/40 ratio to 50/50. Conclusionthe 20-item LLFI-Pr is a valid two-factor solution with sound psychometric properties for research and clinical Persian-language populations with lower limb disorders.

Development of a functional assessment task in metastatic breast cancer patients: the 30-second lie-to-sit test

Purpose To develop a physical function test based on lie-to-sit transition and to study its feasibility in patients suffering from metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Materials and methods This cross-sectional study recruited 90 women diagnosed with MBC. Patients were asked to transfer from lying to sitting position as fast as possible during 30 s, performing the 30-second lie-to-sit test (30-LTS). Heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and number of repetitions were measured. An assessment included the 30-second sit-to-stand test (30-STS), handgrip strength, Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) and Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI). Pearson correlation was calculated between 30-LTS and independent outcomes. A linear regression model explaining the 30-LTS results was further constructed with variables that had a significant correlation. Results About 72 patients were measured, of which 65 were able to perform 30-LTS. Subjects performed 8.13 repetitions on average, with a mean RPE of 4.78 (0–10), reaching 63.08% of maximal HR. 30-LTS was significantly correlated with 30-STS (r = 0.567), handgrip (p = 0.26) and LLFI (r = 0.348). The regression model was significant (F = 4.742; p = 0.00), and these variables explained 32% of the variance of the 30-LTS. Conclusion The 30-LTS showed to be a feasible functional and submaximal test in a sample of MBC. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION The 30-second lie-to-sit (30-LTS) developed does not require the patient to acquire a standing position and therefore it is an alternative to other more biomechanically demanding tests such as a 30 second sit-to-stand test or Timed up-and-go. 30-LTS involves both a functional and energy system assessment tool that can be implemented by allied health professionals in oncology rehabilitation to individualize exercise prescription, as well as for functional screening purposes. The present study adds value to current research focused on individualizing exercise prescription in the oncology field and provides reference values of function in metastatic breast cancer patients.

Effects of Wii Fit Rehabilitation on Lower Extremity Functional Status in Adults With Severe Burns: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of the Wii Fit rehabilitation program in addition to a standard physical therapy program (SPTP) on lower extremity functional status and functional mobility in adults with severe burns after hospital discharge. DesignA single-blinded, parallel groups, randomized controlled trial. SettingsOutpatient rehabilitation center. ParticipantsThirty-four patients (N=34), aged 31.3±7.3 years old, with lower extremity deep partial-thickness and full-thickness burn and total body surface area of more than 40% were allocated randomly into 2 equal groups. InterventionsThe Wii Fit group received the Wii Fit program for 30 minutes in addition to SPTP for 60 minutes, whereas the SPTP group received SPTP only. The intervention was 3 sessions a week for 12 weeks. Main Outcome MeasuresThe primary outcome measurements were the functional status and functional mobility, which were assessed by the high mobility assessment tool, Lower Limb Functional Index, and timed Up and Go test. The secondary outcomes included exercise capacity, muscle strength, and balance measured by the 6-minute walk test, isokinetic muscle strength assessment, and stability index. All the outcome measures were collected at the baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention. ResultsAfter 12 weeks of intervention, there were statistically significant differences between groups in all outcome measures in favor of the Wii Fit group (P<.001). Also, statistically significant differences were found in all the measured outcomes after 12 weeks of intervention in each group (P<.05). ConclusionsPatients with lower extremity burns who received the Wii Fit program in addition to the SPTP had better improvements in lower limb functional status, functional mobility, exercise capacity, muscle strength, and balance than patients who received SPTP alone. The Wii Fit program was a useful adjunctive therapy in rehabilitating adults with lower extremity burn injury.

Polish Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) Demonstrates a Valid Outcome Measure for the Lower Limb Region and Joints.

This study aimed to perform linguistic and cross-cultural adaptation to establish a Polish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) as well as an evaluation of the psychometric properties. This was a two-stage, cross-sectional study. The first stage—linguistic and cultural adaptation, complied with the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research guidelines to produce the Lower Limb Functional Index, Polish version (LLFI-PL). The subjects were recruited to the second stage of the study from a sample of convenience (n = 125, age = 52.86 ± 19.53 years, 56% female, symptoms duration = 17.69 ± 18.39 weeks). Baseline reliability was performed on the LLFI-PL with retest period at 3–7 days. The Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), EuroQol Health Questionnaire 5-Dimensions 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L), and an 11-point Pain Numerical Rating Scale (P-NRS) were completed to assess the validity of the LLFI-PL. Statistical analysis showed high internal consistency (α = 0.94), and excellent test–retest reliability (ICC2.1 = 0.96). The measurement error was SEM = 1.69% with MDC90 = 3.93%. Construct validity demonstrated strong correlations between the LLFI-PL and WOMAC (r = 0.81) and moderate correlations with the EQ-5D-5L (r = −0.63) and P-NRS (r = −0.39). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a single-factor structure. The LLFI-PL is a psychometrically sound questionnaire for Polish-speaking patients with lower limb musculoskeletal conditions. The results support findings from the previous original English, Spanish, and Turkish versions.

Lower limb functional status and its determinants in moderate/major burns 3–6 months following injury: A two-center observational study

IntroductionSevere complications which may cause impaired physical functionoften develops over time following severe burn to the lower extremities. The purpose of this study was to clarify the clinical determinants of lower limb functional status, functional mobility and exercise capacity in moderate/major burns 3–6 months following the injury. MethodsThe study included 42 patients, 12 with moderate injury and 30 with major injury, aged 19–59 years old. Lower Limb Functional Index was used to determine the lower limb functional status. Functional mobility and exercise capacity were evaluated with the Timed Up and Go test and the 6-min walk test, respectively. Scar quality and kinesiophobia were assessed with the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, respectively. Active range of motion (ROM) was measured with a universal goniometer. ResultsSignificant and independent predictors of lower limb functional status, functional mobility and exercise capacity related to POSAS score, kinesiophobia level, gender, burn severity, the number of operations, the presence of burnsinvolving any of the lower limb joints, knee ROM limitations, limitation in any of the lower limb joint ROMs, comorbidities, and truncal burns (p < 0.05). ConclusionsBurn characteristics and clinical evaluations of patients are important determinants of the lower limb functional status, mobility and exercise capacity in burn patients. These predictors should be considered to improve physical functions related to the lower limb when creating a personalized rehabilitation program.

839 Early Ambulation After a Lower Limb Burn Is Associated with Reduced Length of Stay: A Quantitative Longitudinal Study

Abstract Introduction A lower limb burn arguably has a significantly greater effect than an upper limb burn due to the detrimental impact on ambulation and return to daily roles and function. The patterns of functional recovery following a lower limb burn are poorly understood and has only been studied in small cohorts. It was hypothesized that patients, following an early ambulation pathway will have a reduced length of stay (LOS), and improved functional outcomes compared to patients with delayed ambulation after burn or after surgery. Methods The study aimed to explore if the timing of ambulation after lower limb burn and after skin grafting influenced acute LOS and functional outcomes. The study examined patients between 2011–2019 who sustained a lower limb burn injury in two phases. In Phase I, a preliminary sample (2011–2016) of 1209 lower limb burn patients with 1215 burn events was extracted and their date of ambulation confirmed retrospectively from the digital medical record. Phase II, in progress since 2017, prospectively collected the dates of ambulation. The definition of ‘early ambulation’ varies significantly and is poorly described in the literature. This study defined early and late ambulation through the categorization of four ambulatory pathways in surgically managed patients. The outcomes measured were acute LOS, and the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI-10) at six weeks after the burn. Conservatively managed patients were described as a reference only and not further analysed. Results Ambulatory data was available for 95% of cases, and the cohort had a mean age of 37.3 years; 65.6 % were male; and, 57% required surgery. Late ambulation was associated with TBSA; presence of a foot burn; and, when patients burn occurred in a rural area. Phase I results confirmed early ambulation, particularly after surgery, was significantly associated with reduced LOS (p&amp;lt; 0.001). Excluding ICU cases (n=33), median LOS increase was 2 days where ambulation was delayed after surgery. Phase I results indicated a similar trend in LLFI-10 data. The pooling and analysis of Phase I and Phase II data underway now, will substantially increase the sample size and allow definitive understanding of the influence of sub-groups such as ICU patients on the outcomes of interest. Conclusions Ambulation by 48 hours after lower limb grafting surgery is associated with reduced acute burn unit length of stay. Applicability of Research to Practice Where appropriate, achieving early ambulation within two days after surgery will assist patients to progress more rapidly on their journey towards desired participation goals.

A case-series of patients with musculoskeletal conditions in an underserved community in Moca, Dominican Republic

PurposeTo describe characteristics and activity limitations of new patients with musculoskeletal conditions presenting to the World Spine Care (WSC) clinic located in the underserved community of Moca, Dominican Republic.MethodsWe conducted a prospective case series of consecutive adults between October 12 and December 5, 2015. A survey of valid and reliable measures including: Body pain diagram, Wong-Baker FACES® pain rating scale, Spine Functional Index (SFI), Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI) and the 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12v2) was administered to collect socio-demographics, expectation of recovery, comorbidities, and self-reported health status data.ResultsForty-two patients (23 females and 19 males) were included. The most common primary complaint was lower back pain (40.5%; 17/42) and 57% (24/42) of individuals reported pain that interfered with their ability to function and engage in daily activities. Half of the patients presented with two complaints. Complaints were similar between genders. Most patients (64%; 27/42) reported chronic pain (> 6 months) and 97% (41/42) reported believing that they would recover. Twenty-one percent (9/42) self-reported being diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety at some point in their life. In addition, most (57%; 24/42) individuals reported below average physical and mental health related quality of life.ConclusionsThis study is the first to describe characteristics of patients seeking care at the WSC clinic in Moca, Dominican Republic. Most patients attending the clinic suffer from persistent spine complaints that interfere with their ability to function and engage in daily activities. Nevertheless, the patients have positive expectations of recovery.

Validation study of the Functional Assessment Scale for Acute Hamstring injuries in Spanish professional soccer players

Objective: To cross-culturally adapt and validate the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury for professional Spanish-speaking soccer players. Design: Clinical measurement study. Cross-cultural adaptation was conducted following international recommendations. Indicators of validity, reliability and responsiveness are provided. Subjects: The Spanish version of the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury scale was administered to 165 participants: 45 professional soccer players with acute hamstring muscle injury diagnosis, 40 healthy subjects, 40 individuals at-risk for a hamstring muscle injury and 40 patients with injuries of the lower limb other than hamstring muscle injury. Main measures: The Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury. Reference measures: Spanish version of the Quality of Life Short-Form 36 questionnaire (SF-36) and the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI). Results: Cronbach’s alpha (internal consistency) for the Spanish version of the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury scale was >0.8. The intraclass correlation coefficient using the two-way random model (ICC2,1) (test–retest) was 0.993 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.991–0.995; P < 0.05). In the exploratory factor analysis, a one-factor solution explained 85% of the variance. Subjects with hamstring muscle injury scored significantly lower than the other groups in the Spanish version of the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury scale (P < 0.001). The Spanish version of the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury scale score within the hamstring muscle injury group showed moderate and significant correlations with SF-36 physical components (Spearman’s rs > 0.6; P < 0.001), and LLFI score at baseline (rs = 0.42; P < 0.01). The standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change threshold (MDC95%) were 2.6 and 7.2 points, respectively. The responsiveness indicators have an effect size of 3.62, and the standardized response mean is 3.24. Conclusion: The Spanish version of the Functional Assessment Scale for acute hamstring injury scale showed satisfactory psychometric properties. It can be considered a reliable and valid instrument to assess the functional impact of acute hamstring muscle injury in professional Spanish-speaking football players.

Systematic Review of Cross-cultural Adaptations of Hip-specific Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Spanish

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the quality of the transcultural adaptation procedure and the clinimetric properties of the self-administered hip-disability functional assessment questionnaires adapted for the Spanish population. Material and methodWe searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Web of Science databases (from inception until June 2016) to locate all the scales adapted to Spanish and to analyse the different phases of the adaptation process and its psychometric properties. ResultsEight scales were identified, and were grouped into three sections, according to the type of diseases in which they can be used: (a) lower limb: Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and Arthrosis of Membres Inférieurs et Qualité de vie (AMICAL); (b) knee and/or hip: Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index, Osteoarthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life (OAKHQOL) and Hip and Knee Questionnaire (HKQ); and (c) specific for hip: Hip Outcome Score (HOS) and International Hip Outcome Tool-33 (iHOT-33). The transcultural adaptation procedure was satisfactory in all cases, albeit somewhat less rigorous for the HKQ and LLFI than for the remaining questionnaires. No study evaluated all the psychometric properties. ConclusionWe currently have eight hip-disability functional assessment questionnaires adapted to Spanish with satisfactory psychometric properties. We can measure the patient's perceived impact of his or her hip disease by selecting, among the different options, those alternatives that best fit our clinical or research objectives.

The reliability and validity of the Korean version of the lower limb functional index.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to establish the reliability and validity of the Korean-translated version of the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) in the assessment of patients with lower-limb disorders. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-six subjects with lower-limb disorders, 24 men and 32 women, participated in this study. Reliability was determined by using the intra-class correlation coefficient and Cronbach’s α for internal consistency. Validity was examined by correlating the LLFI scores with the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and Short Form 36 (SF-36) scores. [Results] The test-retest reliability was 0.95. The criterion-related validity was established through a comparison with the Korean versions of the LEFS and SF-36. [Conclusion] The Korean version of the LLFI was shown to be a reliable and valid instrument for assessing lower-limb complaints.

Infected tibia defect fractures treated with the Masquelet technique.

The treatment after open and infected fractures with extensive soft tissue damage and bone deficit remains a challenging clinical problem. The technique described by Masquelet, using a temporary cement spacer to induce a membrane combined with reconstructive soft tissue coverage, is a possible solution. This study describes the work-up, operative procedure, complications, and the outcome of a homogenous group of patients with an open and infected tibia fracture and segmental bone loss treated with the Masquelet technique (MT).This retrospective study evaluates patients having sustained an open tibia fracture treated with the MT between 2008 and 2013 with a follow up of at least 1 year. The defect was either primary, caused by a high-grade open fracture or secondary due to a non-union after an open fracture. Prerequisite conditions prior to the procedure of the Masquelet were a defect zone with eradicated infection, an intact soft tissue cover and stability provided by an external fixation.Volume of the defect, time until the implantation of the spacer, time of the spacer in situ and the time to clinical and radiological union were evaluated. Patient records were screened for reoperations and complications. The functional clinical outcome was measured.Eight patients were treated with a follow up over 1 year. The spacer was implanted after a median of 11 (2–70) weeks after the accident. The predefined conditions for the Masquelet phase were reached after a median of 12 (7–34) operations.Seven patients required reconstructive soft tissue coverage. The volume of the defect had a median of 111 (53.9–621.6) cm3, the spacer was in situ for a median of 12 (7–26) weeks. Radiological healing was achieved in 7 cases after a median time of 52 (26–93) weeks.Full weight bearing was achieved after a median time of 16 (11–24) weeks. Four patients needed a reoperation. The lower limb functional index was a median of 60% (32–92%).Seven out of 8 patients treated in this group of severe open and infected tibia fractures did both clinically and radiologically heal. Due to the massive destruction of the soft tissue, patients needed several reoperations with soft tissue debridements and reconstruction before the spacer and the bone graft could be implanted.

The Lower Limb Functional Index – A reliable and valid functional outcome assessment in burns

Lower limb injuries account for up to 40% of all burns in Western Australia and affect physical function. Lower limb specific functional assessments are available to monitor recovery, yet no scale has been assessed for use in burns. The Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) which is validated in musculoskeletal patients was investigated for applicability in burn.Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, principal components analysis and Rasch analysis. Validity was assessed using Spearman's correlation coefficient with quality of life assessments (BSHS-B & SF-36) and physical assessments (TUG & ankle ROM). Regression analysis was performed with burn severity measures, time of recovery and location of the burn.The LLFI-10 was applied 1368 times on 739 patients at regular time points. It was internally consistent (α>0.8) and unidimensional. Associations were demonstrated with the BSHS-B and SF-36 (rho=−0.56 to −0.72, p<0.001), TUG (rho=0.41, p<0.001) and ankle ROM (rho=−0.31 to −0.35, p<0.001). The LLFI-10 also showed associations (p<0.001) with time since injury (rho=−0.29), age (rho=0.12) and TBSA (rho=0.12).The LLFI-10 is a reliable and valid tool to assess function in lower limb burns. This study supports the use of the LLFI-10 as part of a battery of assessment for lower limb burn recovery.

Mulligan Mobilization Versus Stretching on the Management of Piriformis Syndrome a Comparative Study

Background:&nbsp;Piriformis syndrome is a commonly overlooked specific cause of low back pain. Apart from mimicking the sciatica-like symptoms, unilateral piriformis tightness can cause rotational dysfunction and pain in the lumbar region. This could lead to low back pain which is a common musculo skeletal problem and a major reason for activity limitation. Stretching the piriformis tightened muscle is a preferred choice of treatment against surgical intervention to release the muscle. Mulligan’s mobilization is based on movement with mobilization which is proven to be effective in many musculo skeletal dysfunctions including the lumbar spine. The purpose of this study is to explore and compare the two treatment methods in relieving the low back pain in clinical conditions with piriformis syndrome.Methods:&nbsp;In this experimental study, 40 patients with piriformis syndrome were selected and divided into two groups. One group was given only piriformis stretching for the tightened muscle and the other group given Mulligan mobilization for lumbo sacral joints. VAS and lower limb functional index were taken to compare before and after the treatment regime of 4 weeks.Results:&nbsp;There was no significant difference between the two groups in both pain scale and lower limb mobility and function. But there was significant improvement in pain relief and LLFI after the treatment regime in both groups compared to the pre-treatment status.Conclusion:&nbsp;Even as the piriformis syndrome is caused by the tightness of the muscle, the consequence in the lower back and lumbar spine mobility can be improved by a Mulligan mobilization as a single mode of intervention .

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index

Purpose: This study aims to adapt culturally a Turkish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) and to determine its validity, reliability, internal consistency, measurement sensitivity and factor structure in lower limb problems. Method: The LLFI was translated into Turkish and cross-culturally adapted with a double forward–backward protocol that determined face and content validity. Individuals (n = 120) with lower limb musculoskeletal disorders completed the LLFI and Short Form-36 questionnaires and the Timed Up and Go physical test. The psychometric properties were evaluated for the all participants from patient-reported outcome measures made at baseline and repeated at day 3 to determine criterion between scores (Pearson’s r), internal consistency (Cronbachs α) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient – ICC2.1). Error was determined using standard error of the measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change at the 90% level (MDC90), while factor structure was determined using exploratory factor analysis with maximum likelihood extraction and Varimax rotation. Results: The psychometric characteristics showed strong criterion validity (r = 0.74–0.76), high internal consistency (α = 0.82) and high test–retest reability (ICC2.1 = 0.97). The SEM of 3.2% gave an MDC90 = 5.8%. The factor structure was uni-dimensional. Conclusions: Turkish version of LLFI was found to be valid and reliable for the measurement of lower limb function in a Turkish population.Implications for RehabilitationLower extremity musculoskeletal disorders are common and greatly impact activities among the affected individuals pertaining to daily living, work, leisure and quality of life.Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have advantages as they are practical, cost-effective and clinically convenient for use in patient-centered care.The Lower Limb Functional Index is a recently validated PRO measure shown to have strong clinimetric properties.

Quality of life and self-reported lower extremity function in adults with HIV-related distal sensory polyneuropathy.

Distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSP) is a common complication of HIV disease. Its effects on quality of life (QOL) and function have not been well described. The study objectives were: (1) to compare QOL and lower extremity function in people with HIV-related DSP and people with HIV disease who do not have DSP, (2) to determine the extent to which function predicts QOL, (3) to evaluate the agreement of 2 function scales, and (4) to describe the use of pain management resources. This was a cross-sectional survey study with predictive modeling and measurement tool concordant validation. A demographic questionnaire, the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey, the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), and a review of medical records were used. General linear modeling was used to assess group differences in QOL and the relationship between function and QOL. Bland-Altman procedures were used to assess the agreement of the LEFS and the LLFI. Usable data for analyses were available for 82 of the 94 participants enrolled. The 67% of participants who reported DSP symptoms tended to be older, had HIV disease longer, and were more likely to receive disability benefits. Participants without DSP had better LLFI, LEFS, and physical health summary scores. In multivariate models, lower limb function predicted physical and mental health summary scores. The LLFI identified participants with a lower level of function more often than the LEFS. Participants with DSP were more likely to use medical treatment, physical therapy, and complementary or alternative treatments. A sample of convenience was used; the sample size resulted in a low power for the mental health summary score of the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey. Quality of life and function were more impaired in participants with HIV disease and DSP. The LLFI was more likely to capture limitations in function than the LEFS. Participants with DSP reported more frequent use of pain management resources.

Cross cultural adaptation and validation of a Spanish version of the Lower Limb Functional Index.

BackgroundThe Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI) is a relatively recently published regional outcome measure. The development article showed the LLFI had robust and valid clinimetric properties with sound psychometric and practical characteristics when compared to the Lower Limb Extremity Scale (LEFS) criterion standard.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was cross cultural adaptation and validation of the LLFI Spanish-version (LLFI-Sp) in a Spanish population.MethodsA two stage observational study was conducted. The LLFI was initially cross-culturally adapted to Spanish through double forward and single backward translation; then subsequently validated for the psychometric characteristics of validity, internal consistency, reliability, error score and factor structure. Participants (n = 136) with various lower limb conditions of >12 weeks duration completed the LLFI-Sp, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the Euroqol Health Questionnaire 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D-3 L). The full sample was employed to determine internal consistency, concurrent criterion validity, construct validity and factor structure; a subgroup (n = 45) determined reliability at seven days concurrently completing a global rating of change scale.ResultsThe LLFI-Sp demonstrated high but not excessive internal consistency (α = 0.91) and high reliability (ICC = 0.96). The factor structure was one-dimensional which supported the construct validity. Criterion validity with the WOMAC was strong (r = 0.77) and with the EQ-5D-3 L fair and inversely correlated (r = -0.62). The study limitations included the lack of longitudinal data and the determination of responsiveness.ConclusionsThe LLFI-Sp supports the findings of the original English version as being a valid lower limb regional outcome measure. It demonstrated similar psychometric properties for internal consistency, validity, reliability, error score and factor structure.

On “Lower Limb Functional Index…” Gabel CP, Melloh M, Burkett B, Michener LA. Phys Ther. 2012;92:98–110.

We were interested to read the article by Gabel and colleagues,1 who conducted a head-to-head comparison study of the psychometric properties of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS),2 an instrument we developed in 1999, and the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), an instrument developed by the authors. We have long been advocates of head-to-head comparisons of competing instruments to determine which has the greatest potential to positively affect clinical care.3 We would like to make some general comments regarding the conceptual framework, and then make more specific comments regarding the methods and literature interpretation in Gabel and colleagues' article. We developed the LEFS2 based on the World Health Organization's model of disability and handicap.4 The more contemporary terms consistent with the current version of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)5 that guided instrument development are “activity limitations” and “participation restrictions.” Because our focus was on people with musculoskeletal disorders of the lower extremity, all of the items in our scale captured the person-level activity limitations and participation restrictions most relevant to people with disorders of the lower extremity. Notably absent from the LEFS are questions related to impairments (eg, pain, joint stiffness) or mental health status (eg, irritability, depression). Our rationale for this approach was that we saw problems with other functional status instruments available at the time because they combined questions related to impairments, such as pain and joint stiffness, with items dealing with person-level function and items related to psychological distress. An example of …

Gabel CP, Melloh M, Burkett B, Michener LA. “Lower Limb Functional Index: development and clinimetric measurements.” Phys Ther. 2012;92:98–110.

Gabel CP, Melloh M, Burkett B, Michener LA. “Lower Limb Functional Index: development and clinimetric measurements.” Phys Ther. 2012;92:98–110.