Self-report measures of physical function for children with spinal cord injury: a review of current tools and an option for the future.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to provide paediatric rehabilitation providers with a review of self-report physical function outcome measures that have been used for children with spinal cord injury (SCI).


METHODS
A literature review was conducted to identify self-report physical function measures for children with SCI. Further searching of reference lists and textbooks was also completed.


RESULTS
Eight measures were identified, but limitations exist in these current tools. There are few reports of psychometrics, in addition to a lack of accommodation for wheelchair use, limited item content for supported ambulation and minimal variation in content for a wide age-range.


CONCLUSIONS
A comprehensive yet practical self-report measure applicable for all ages with items suitable for a child with a complete or incomplete injury is needed. The best means to achieve effective and efficient outcome monitoring may be computerized adaptive testing.
Dumas
Helene M
HM
Franciscan Hospital for Children, Research Center, Boston, MA 02135, USA. hdumas@fhfc.org
Haley
Stephen M
SM
Boyce
Megan E
ME
Peters
Christine Y
CY
Mulcahey
M J
MJ