Overview
This study aims to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Urdu version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire for individuals with upper limb disabilities. Since no validated Urdu version currently exists, Urdu-speaking patients face communication barriers that may lead to inaccurate assessment and limited clinical decision-making. By ensuring semantic equivalence through forward-backward translation and expert review, the study seeks to develop a version that is both linguistically accurate and culturally appropriate.
Description
This study aims to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Urdu version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire for individuals with upper limb disabilities. Since no validated Urdu version currently exists, Urdu-speaking patients face communication barriers that may lead to inaccurate assessment and limited clinical decision-making. By ensuring semantic equivalence through forward-backward translation and expert review, the study seeks to develop a version that is both linguistically accurate and culturally appropriate.
A cross-sectional research design will be used, involving adults aged 18-45 years diagnosed with upper limb functional limitations. Participants will complete both the Urdu and English DASH questionnaires to evaluate reliability and validity. Reliability will be assessed through internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest stability (ICC), while validity will be examined using expert scoring (CVI) and correlation with the original instrument. Data analysis will follow standard psychometric testing procedures using SPSS.
The expected outcome is a reliable, valid tool for assessing upper extremity disability in Urdu-speaking populations. This will improve clinical assessment, enhance patient communication, and support broader inclusion in rehabilitation research and practice.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
Diagnosed with any upper limb disability or deformity . Able to read, understand and speak Urdu. Individuals with symptoms enduring for at least one week .
Exclusion Criteria:
Cognitive impairment or psychiatric illness that hinders understanding of the questionnaire.
Patients with congenital deformities. Refusal to give informed consent.