The Upper Extremity Functional Index is a self-administered questionnaire designed to assess the functional ability of individuals experiencing musculoskeletal problems affecting the arm, shoulder, wrist, or hand. Available as a portable document format (pdf), it allows clinicians and researchers to conveniently administer and score the instrument. This tool quantifies the degree of difficulty an individual experiences when performing a variety of daily activities, providing a numerical score reflecting overall upper extremity function.
The significance of this assessment lies in its ability to provide objective data on patient-reported outcomes, facilitating evidence-based clinical decision-making. By tracking functional improvements or declines over time, clinicians can evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, such as physical therapy or surgical procedures. Its standardized format contributes to improved communication among healthcare professionals and allows for comparing outcomes across different populations and treatment settings. Early applications of upper extremity functional assessments have shown positive correlation in tracking rehabilitation progress, enhancing treatment efficiency and patient outcomes.
