Stenosing flexor tenosynovitis: Validity of standard assessment tools of daily functioning and quality of life

Abstract

Study design: Cross-sectional.

Introduction: Stenosing flexor tenosynovitis (SFT) is a common hand disease, yet there is a lack of valid standard assessments for this population.

Purpose of the study: Validation of assessment for the evaluation of disability and quality of life related to SFT clinical severity.

Methods: Sixty five participants with SFT were matched to 71 controls. Participant's symptoms were graded using the Quinnell classification. Disability and quality of life were evaluated using the DASH and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires.

Results: Small to moderate correlations were found between SFT grade and the DASH and WHOQOL-BREF. Both questionnaires differentiated between the first and third clinical grades and between SFT and healthy groups.

Discussion: Both questionnaires are useful tools to distinguish between participants with SFT and controls and between mild and severe clinical grades.

Conclusion: The DASH and WHOQOL-BREF may be implemented in the clinical management and research of SFT.

Level of evidence: Diagnostic III.

Keywords: Assessment; Disability; Quality of life; Trigger finger.