Correlation between Modified Functional Reach Test and Transfer Activities of Daily Living in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury- A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: The Modified Functional Reach Test (mFRT) is the tool to measure dynamic sitting balance, forward and lateral directions, developed for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). In spite of being dynamic in nature, mFRT has not been studied for its ability to predict transfer domain of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the association between mFRT and sitting transfer domain of ICF. Methodology: Volitional effort of 10 patients with SCI was measured in centimeters with the help of mFRT by reaching in forward and lateral direction in sitting. Patients’ ability to transfer oneself (d472) domain of ICF was evaluated using standard scoring format in terms of Capacity and Performance. Results: Data was analysed using Kendalls coefficient of concordance. A strong negative correlation (τb= -0.81, p<0.05) was found between forward reach and transfer domain of ICF and moderate correlation (τb= -0.71, p<0.05) was observed between Lateral reach test with Transfer oneself Domain. Conclusion: Strength of correlation indicates that patients are able to carryover the clinical effect of training into functional activities. However, considering the frequent use of lateral transfer during ADLs calls for stronger correlation and hence more focused training during rehabilitation.