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Abstract
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Study Design Systematic review of measurement properties. Background Many primary studies have examined the measurement properties such as reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change for the LEFS in different clinical populations, a systematic review summarizing these properties for the LEFS can provide an important resource.
OBJECTIVE To locate and synthesize the evidence on the measurement properties of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and discuss clinical implications of the evidence.
METHODS Literature search was conducted for 4 databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL) using pre-defined search terms. Critical appraisal of the included studies was performed by 2 reviewers using standardized assessment form.
RESULTS A total of 27 studies were included in the review, of which 18 articles reached good methodological quality level. The LEFS scores demonstrated excellent test retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient ranging between 0.85-0.99) and had expected relationships with measures assessing similar constructs (Pearson Correlation Coefficient values of >0.7). The responsiveness of the LEFS scores was excellent as suggested by consistently high ES (>0.8) in patients with different lower extremity conditions. Minimal detectable change at 90% confidence interval (MDC90) for the LEFS scores varied between 8.1-15.3 across different reassessment intervals in wide range of patient populations. Pooled estimate of the MDC90 was 6 points and the minimal clinically important difference was 9 points in patients with lower extremity MSK conditions which are indicative of true change and clinically meaningful change respectively.
CONCLUSION The results of this review support the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the LEFS scores for assessing functional impairment in a wide array of patient groups with lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, Epub 26 Jan 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6165.
Language: en |