The DASH (Disability of Arm--Shoulder--Hand) questionnaire was a collaborative effort developed by three key organizations: the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the Council of Musculoskeletal Specialty Societies, and the Institute for Work and Health.
Understanding the DASH Questionnaire
The DASH is a widely recognized outcomes data collection instrument. It was specifically designed to assess and measure the symptoms and functional limitations experienced by patients with various conditions affecting the arm, shoulder, and hand. Its development was crucial for standardizing the evaluation of upper extremity disabilities in both clinical practice and research settings.
The Collaborating Entities
The creation of the DASH questionnaire was a significant undertaking, bringing together expertise from different areas of medicine and research.
Here are the key organizations involved in its development:
| Entity | Role and Contribution to DASH Development |
|---|---|
| American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons | A leading professional organization for orthopaedic surgeons, playing a pivotal role in setting standards for orthopaedic care, research, and education. Their involvement ensured the instrument's clinical relevance and applicability within the orthopaedic community. |
| Council of Musculoskeletal Specialty Societies | This council comprises various specialty societies focused on musculoskeletal health. Their collective expertise from different sub-specialties within orthopaedics and rehabilitation contributed to a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of upper extremity conditions, ensuring the questionnaire's broad utility across diverse patient populations. |
| Institute for Work and Health | A Canadian independent research organization dedicated to preventing work-related injury and illness, and promoting recovery and return to work. Their expertise in occupational health and disability assessment was instrumental in shaping the DASH questionnaire to be effective in evaluating the impact of upper extremity conditions on an individual's work and daily activities. |
This collaborative approach ensured that the DASH questionnaire is a robust, reliable, and valid tool that accurately assesses outcomes for patients with arm, shoulder, and hand disabilities, making it invaluable for clinicians, researchers, and patients alike.
