Lower Quadrant Edema Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Is Reliable, Valid, and Efficient for Patients With Lymphatic and Venous Disorders.

OBJECTIVE: The main aims of this study were: (1) to create a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) item bank for measuring the impact of lower quadrant edema (LQE) on physical function using item response theory and (2) to assess reliability, validity, and administration efficiency of LQE PROM scores based on computerized adaptive test (CAT) and the reliability of a 10-item short form (SF). METHODS: This retrospective study included data from patients treated in outpatient rehabilitation clinics for lower quadrant edema who responded to all 30 candidate items at intake. Item response theory model assumptions of unidimensionality, local item independence, item fit, and presence of differential item functioning (DIF) were evaluated. LQE-CAT-generated scores were assessed for reliability, validity, and administration efficiency. LQE-SF-generated scores were assessed for reliability. RESULTS: The total cohort included 4894 patients (mean [SD] age = 65 [14] years; range = 14-89 years). A set of 20 items was selected for the item bank based on support for its unidimensionality and fit to the item response theory model, with reliability estimates greater than 0.92 for CAT and SF administration modes. No items demonstrated DIF with respect to tested variables. After controlling for scores at intake, scores discriminated among multiple patient groups in clinically logical ways with better outcomes observed for patients who were younger with less chronic symptoms and fewer comorbidities. Scores were responsive to change but the effect size was small (0.4). There were negligible floor and ceiling effects. CAT administration of the item bank required an average of 6.1 items (median = 5). Scores correlated highly with full-bank scores (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.98). CONCLUSION: Scores on the LQE PROM were reliable, valid, and efficient for assessing perceived physical function of patients with lower quadrant edema. The LQE, CAT, and SF are suitable for research and routine clinical care. Reasons for the small effect size for change scores should be studied. IMPACT: The newly developed LQE PROM was reliable and valid and offered efficient administration modes for assessing perceived physical function of patients with LQE, both for research and routine clinical care in busy outpatient rehabilitation settings. As an item response theory-based measure, the LQE PROM allows administration of condition-specific functional questions with low response burden for patients. The 10-item LQE-SF offers a feasible alternative administration mode when CAT administration is not available. This study supports a transition to PROMs that are based on modern measurement approaches to achieve the combined benefits of high accuracy and efficiency.

The Stroke Upper and Lower Extremity Physical Function Measures Were Supported for Score Reliability, Validity, and Administration Efficiency for Patients Poststroke.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate the suitability of newly developed items for calibration into 2 item banks for stroke upper extremity (SUE) and stroke lower extremity (SLE) physical function (PF) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and to (2) assess score reliability and validity and PROM administration efficiency based on computerized adaptive testing (CAT). METHODS: A retrospective longitudinal study involving patients poststroke who were treated in outpatient rehabilitation clinics and responded to 28 and 25 region-specific candidate items addressing tasks related to upper or lower extremity PF, respectively, was conducted. Item response theory (IRT) model assumptions of unidimensionality, local independence, item fit, and presence of differential item functioning were evaluated. CAT-generated scores were assessed for reliability, validity, and administration efficiency, and 10-item short forms were assessed for reliability. RESULTS: Cohorts consisted of 2017 patients with stroke involving the upper extremity and 2107 patients with stroke involving the lower extremity (mean age [SD]: SUE = 62 [14] and SLE = 63 [14]; range = 14-89). Two solutions (SUE: 28-item; SLE: 24-item) supported unidimensionality and fit to the IRT model, with reliability estimates >0.93 for all administration modes. No items demonstrated differential item functioning. Scores discriminated among multiple patient groups in clinically logical ways, with better outcomes observed for patients who were younger, were male, had less chronicity, and had fewer comorbidities. The SUE and SLE, respectively, had 1 and 0.3% floor effects and 4.3 and 1.1% ceiling effects. Change score effect sizes were 0.5 (SUE) and 0.6 (SLE). Simulated CAT scores required an average of 6 (SUE) and 5.6 (SLE) items (median = 5). CONCLUSION: The stroke upper extremity and stroke lower extremity PROM scores were reliable, valid, and efficient and had moderate change effect sizes for assessing PF as perceived by patients poststroke with upper and lower extremity impairments. Scores had negligible floor and acceptable ceiling effects. Based on these results, the stroke PROMs are suitable for research and routine clinical practice. IMPACT: As IRT-based measures, these PROMs support clinical practice guideline recommendations for the use of outcome measures in neurologic physical therapy and the administration of condition-specific functional questions with low response burden for patients. The 10-item short forms offer a feasible alternative administration mode when CAT administration is not available.

Reliability, Validity, and Efficiency of an Item Response Theory-Based Balance Confidence Patient-Reported Outcome Measure.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to calibrate the original 16 items from the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale to create an item response theory (IRT)-based item bank and scoring metric of balance confidence (BC) and to assess psychometric properties of a computerized adaptive test (BC-CAT) and 6-item short-form (BC-SF) administration modes. METHODS: This retrospective study included data from patients who were treated in outpatient rehabilitation clinics and assessed for balance impairments by responding to the full ABC Scale at intake. IRT model assumptions of unidimensionality, local item independence, item fit, and presence of differential item functioning (DIF) were evaluated. BC-CAT-generated scores were assessed for reliability, validity, and administration efficiency, and the newly developed BC-SF was assessed for reliability. RESULTS: Total cohort included 20,354 patients (mean age [SD] = 66 [16] years; range = 14-89). All 16 items were retained in the final item bank based on support for unidimensionality and fit to the IRT model. No items demonstrated DIF. Reliability estimates were 0.95, 0.96, and 0.98 for the BC-SF, BC-CAT, and the full item bank, respectively. Scores discriminated among patient groups in clinically logical ways. After controlling for scores at intake, better outcomes were achieved for patients who were younger, had more acute symptoms, exercised more, and had fewer comorbidities. Scores were responsive to change with a moderate effect size, with negligible floor and ceiling effects. CAT scores were generated using an average of 4.7 items (median = 4) and correlated highly with full-bank scores (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.99). CONCLUSION: The IRT-based BC patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) was reliable, valid, moderately responsive to change, and efficient, with excellent score coverage. The measure is suitable for research and routine clinical administration using the BC-CAT or BC-SF administration modes. The full ABC Scale can be administered for increased clinical content when appropriate. IMPACT: The newly developed BC-PROM was reliable and valid for assessing perceived BC. In addition, the BC-PROM has efficient administration modes with low patient response burden, which enhances feasibility and promotes use during routine clinical practice in busy rehabilitation settings. This study supports a transition to PROMs that are based on modern measurement approaches to achieve the combined benefits of high accuracy and efficiency.

The association between self-efficacy on function and pain outcomes among patients with chronic low back pain managed using the McKenzie approach: a prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Self-efficacy is a determinant of function and pain outcomes in patients with chronic low back pain receiving physiotherapy. The McKenzie approach is an effective intervention for patients with back pain that may affect self-efficacy. Study aims were to determine if, among patients with back pain being managed by McKenzie-credentialed physiotherapists: intake self-efficacy is correlated with intake function and pain; intake self-efficacy is associated with changes in function and pain during treatment; self-efficacy improves during treatment; and improvements in self-efficacy during treatment are associated with improvements in function and pain at discharge. METHODS: Two-hundred-eighty-two subjects with chronic low back pain seen by McKenzie-credentialed clinicians provided data on self-efficacy, function and pain at intake and discharge. RESULTS: Self-efficacy was correlated with function and pain at intake; however, intake self-efficacy was not associated with function or pain outcomes. Self-efficacy increased during treatment. This increase was associated with improvements in function and pain at discharge. CONCLUSION: While intake self-efficacy was associated with function and pain when initiating physiotherapy, it did not result in improved treatment outcomes. Specific interventions may be necessary to improve self-efficacy. The increases in self-efficacy observed during treatment were associated with improvements in function and pain outcomes at discharge.

The effectiveness of post-professional physical therapist training in the treatment of chronic low back pain using a propensity score approach with machine learning.

RATIONALE: Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability in the United States creating substantial hardships through negative social, financial, and health effects. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) accounted for above half of patients treated in physical therapy (PT) clinics for LBP. However, research shows small benefit from PT in CLBP treatment. Preliminary evidence suggests clinician-level training variables may affect outcomes, but requires further investigation to determine whether patients with CLBP benefit from treatment by providers with post-professional training. This study examined the relationship between clinician training levels and patient-reported outcomes in CLBP treatment. METHODS: Physical therapies were surveyed using a large patient outcome assessment system to determine and categorise them by level of post-professional education. To account for the possibility that clinicians with higher levels of training are referred more-complex patients, a machine learning approach was used to identify predictive variables for clinician group, then to construct propensity scores to account for differences between groups. Differences in functional status score change among pooled data were analysed using linear models adjusted for propensity scores. RESULTS: There were no clinically meaningful differences in patient outcomes when comparing clinician post-professional training level. The propensity score method proved to be a valuable way to account for differences at baseline between groups. CONCLUSION: Post-professional training does not appear to contribute to improved patient outcomes in the treatment of CLBP. This study demonstrates that propensity score analysis can be used to ensure that differences observed are true and not due to differences at baseline.

Is Telerehabilitation a Viable Option for People With Low Back Pain? Associations Between Telerehabilitation and Outcomes During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to examine associations between frequency of telerehabilitation (TR) and outcomes of functional status (FS), number of visits, and patient satisfaction during COVID-19 and to compare FS outcomes by TR delivery mode for individuals with low back pain. METHODS: Propensity score matching was used to match episodes of care with or without TR exposure by the probability of receiving TR. FS, visits, and satisfaction were compared for individuals without TR and those who received care by TR for "any," "few," "most," or "all" frequencies (4 matched samples), and FS was compared for individuals receiving synchronous, asynchronous, and mixed TR modes (3 matched samples). Standardized differences were used to compare samples before and after matching. Outcomes between matched samples were compared using z tests with 95% CI. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 91,117 episodes of care from 1398 clinics located in 46 states (58% women; mean age = 55 [SD = 18]). Of those, only 5013 episodes (5.5%) involved any amount of TR. All standardized differences between matched samples were <0.1. There was no significant difference in FS points (range = 0-100, with higher representing better FS) between matched samples, except for episodes that had ``few'' (-1.7) and ``all'' (+2.0) TR frequencies or that involved the asynchronous (-2.6) TR mode. These point differences suggest limited clinical importance. Episodes with any TR frequency involved significantly fewer visits (0.7-1.3) than episodes with no TR, except that those with the "most" TR frequency had non-significantly fewer visits (0.6). A smaller proportion of individuals with TR (-4.0% to -5.0%) than of individuals with no telerehabilitation reported being very satisfied with treatment results, except for those with the "all" TR frequency. CONCLUSIONS: A positive association between TR and rehabilitation outcomes was observed, with a trend for better FS outcomes and fewer visits when all care was delivered through TR. Satisfaction tended to be lower with TR use. Overall, this observational study showed that for people with low back pain, physical therapy delivered through TR was equally effective as and more efficient than in-person care, with a trend of higher effectiveness when used for all visits during the episode of care. No differences in FS outcomes were observed between care delivered with synchronous and mixed TR delivery modes and care delivered with no TR. However, the asynchronous mode of TR was associated with worse functional outcomes than no TR. Although the majority of people were very satisfied with their treatment results with and without TR, very high satisfaction rates were reported by a slightly smaller proportion of individuals with TR versus those without TR. Our results suggest that TR is a viable option for rehabilitation care for individuals with low back pain and should also be considered in the post-COVID-19 era.

Upper Quadrant Edema Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Is Reliable, Valid, and Efficient for Patients With Lymphatic and Venous Disorders.

OBJECTIVE: The main aims of this study were to (1) create a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) item bank for measuring the impact of upper quadrant edema (UQE) on physical function by calibrating responses to newly developed items; and (2) assess reliability, validity, and administration efficiency of scores based on computerized adaptive test (CAT) and 10-item short-form (SF) administration modes. METHODS: This was a retrospective study including data from patients treated in outpatient rehabilitation clinics for UQE that responded to all 27 candidate items at intake. Item response theory model assumptions of unidimensionality, local item independence, item fit, and presence of differential item functioning were evaluated. UQE-CAT- and UQE-SF-generated scores were assessed for reliability, validity, and administration efficiency. RESULTS: The total cohort included 3486 patients (mean [SD] age = 61 [13] years; range = 14-89 years). After removing 2 items, a 25-item solution was supported for its unidimensionality and fit to the item response theory model with reliability estimates of more than 0.93 for scores based on both CAT and SF administration modes. No items demonstrated differential item functioning. Scores discriminated among multiple patient groups in clinically logical ways and were moderately responsive to change with negligible floor and acceptable ceiling effects. CAT scores were generated using an average of 5.6 items (median = 5). CONCLUSION: Scores on the UQE PROM were reliable, valid, and efficient for assessing perceived physical function of patients with upper quadrant edema; thus, the measure is suitable for research and routine clinical administration. IMPACT: The newly developed UQE PROM is reliable and valid and offers efficient administration modes for assessing perceived physical function of patients with UQE caused by lymphatic and venous disorders, both for research and routine clinical care in busy outpatient rehabilitation settings. As an item response theory-based measure, the UQE PROM allows administration of condition-specific functional questions with low response burden for patients. This study supports a transition to PROMs that are based on modern measurement approaches to achieve high accuracy and efficiency.

Telerehabilitation During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Outpatient Rehabilitation Settings: A Descriptive Study.

OBJECTIVE: COVID-19 has widely affected delivery of health care. In response, telerehabilitation (TR) has emerged as alternative care model. Aims were: (1) to describe baseline patient characteristics and available unadjusted outcomes for episodes of care administered during COVID-19 using TR versus traditional in-person care, and (2) to describe TR frequency levels by condition and telecommunication modes. METHODS: A descriptive retrospective observational design was used to report patient variables and outcomes including physical function, number of visits, and patient satisfaction, by TR frequency (few, most, or all visits) and telecommunication modes. Standardized differences were used to compare baseline characteristics between episodes with and without TR. RESULTS: Sample consisted of 222,680 patients (59% female; mean [SD] age = 55 [18] years). Overall TR rate was 6% decreasing from 10% to 5% between second and third quarters of 2020. Outcome measures were available for 90% to 100% of episodes. Thirty-seven percent of clinicians administered care via TR. Patients treated using TR compared with in-person care were more likely to be younger and live in large metropolitan areas. From those with TR, 55%, 20%, and 25% had TR during few, most, or all visits, respectively. TR care was administered equally across orthopedic body parts, with lower use for nonorthopedic conditions such as stroke, edema, and vestibular dysfunction. TR was primarily administered using synchronous (video or audio) modes. The rate of patients reported being very satisfied with their treatment results was 3% higher for no TR compared with TR. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide new knowledge about to whom and how TR is being administered during the pandemic in outpatient rehabilitation practices throughout the United States. The database assessed was found to be suitable for conducting studies on associations between TR and diverse outcome measures, controlling for a comprehensive set of patient characteristics, to advance best TR care models, and promote high-quality care. IMPACT: This study provided detailed and robust descriptive information using an existing national patient database containing patient health and demographic characteristics, outcome measures, and telerehabilitation (TR) administration data. Findings support the feasibility to conduct future studies on associations between TR care and patient outcomes, adjusting for a wide range of patient characteristics and clinical setting factors that may be associated with the probability of receiving TR. The finding of limited and decreasing use of TR over the study period calls for studies aimed to better understand facilitators and inhibitors of TR use by rehabilitation therapists during everyday practice to promote its use when clinically appropriate.

The Lower Extremity Physical Function Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Was Reliable, Valid, and Efficient for Patients With Musculoskeletal Impairments.

OBJECTIVE: To calibrate the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) items into a regional lower extremity physical function (LEPF) item bank and assess reliability, validity, and efficiency of computerized adaptive test (CAT) and short form (SF) administration modes. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort. SETTING: Data were collected from patients treated in outpatient rehabilitation clinics for musculoskeletal impairments of the hip, knee, foot, and ankle that responded to all 20 LEFS items at intake. PARTICIPANTS: Patients aged 14 years or older who started an episode of care during January 2016-October 2019 and identified the lower extremity region as the source of a primary musculoskeletal complaint. Total cohort included 78,186 patients (mean age, 53±19y, range, 14-89y). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Item response theory (IRT) model assumptions of unidimensionality, local item independence, item fit, and presence of differential item functioning (DIF) were studied. LEPF-CAT- and LEPF-SF-generated scores were evaluated. RESULTS: An 18-item solution was supported for its unidimensionality and fit to the IRT model, with reliability estimates >0.9 for all administration modes. No DIF impact on LEPF scores was identified. Scores discriminated between multiple patient groups in clinically logical ways and were highly responsive to change, with negligible floor or ceiling effects. CAT scores were generated using an average of 4.9 items (median, 4). CONCLUSIONS: The LEPF scores were reliable, valid, and efficient for assessing perceived physical function of patients with musculoskeletal impairments of the hip, knee, foot, and ankle; thus, it was found suitable for research and routine clinical administration. These findings are limited to the type of patients included in this study, with further validation needed to assess their generalizability.

Cognitive behavioural interventions, and function and pain outcomes among patients with chronic neck pain managed with the McKenzie approach.

OBJECTIVES: Graded activity and graded exposure in vivo are recommended cognitive behavioural approaches to improve function and pain outcomes for patients receiving physiotherapy for chronic nonspecific neck pain. The McKenzie method is a common treatment approach for patients with neck pain. The study objectives were to examine associations between interventions with graded activity and/or graded exposure, as determined by the treating physiotherapist, and function and pain outcomes for patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain managed by clinicians with credentials in the McKenzie approach. METHOD: A cohort study was carried out, in which subjects (n = 366) with chronic nonspecific neck pain completed intake surveys (i.e., the Neck Functional Status Computerized Adaptive Test and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale), and questions related to their demographic, lifestyle and health status. Treatment with graded activity/graded exposure during the episode of care was recorded. Function and pain measures were repeated at discharge. Multivariable models examining associations between patients receiving versus not receiving graded activity/graded exposure, and pain and function outcomes were constructed, controlling for potential confounding effects. RESULTS: Despite statistical significance, there were no clinically relevant differences between treatment versus no treatment with graded activity/graded exposure, and function or pain outcomes. CONCLUSION: There is insufficient evidence to suggest that patients being managed with McKenzie methods will attain clinically relevant improvements in function or pain outcomes when augmenting treatment with graded activity and/or graded exposure when the choice to intervene with these cognitive behavioural approaches is determined by the treating physiotherapist.

Associations between interim patient-reported outcome measures and functional status at discharge from rehabilitation for non-specific lumbar impairments.

PURPOSE: Identify impact of frequency and timing of interim Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) assessments during episodes of care for rehabilitation services in outpatient clinical settings on functional status (FS) outcomes at discharge for patients with low back pain. METHODS: FS outcomes of patients who had no interim PROMs were compared to outcomes of six patient groups defined by interim timing (early, mid, late) and frequency (1, 2 or more). For each comparison, patients were matched using propensity score matching for variables known to be associated with FS outcomes and for episode duration (days) and number of visits. FS was assessed using the lumbar computerized adaptive test (LCAT) where scores range from 0 to 100 with higher scores representing better physical function. RESULTS: A sample of 140,336 patients was considered for matching (mean age = 58 [SD = 17] range 18-89; 60% females) with 83,101 patients (59%) having no interim PROMs. Patients who had only one interim PROM, administered during early (first 2 weeks), mid (weeks 3-4), or late (week 5 or later) timing, had 4.6, 2.7, and 1.0 additional FS score points at discharge compared to those without an interim PROM, respectively (p < 0.001). Having two or more interim PROMs was associated with an additional 1.2 FS points compared to having only one interim assessment, but only if the first interim was administered early. CONCLUSIONS: Optimal utilization of interim PROM assessment during clinical practice to enhance treatment outcomes was related to administering the first interim PROM within the first 2 weeks after the initial evaluation.

Association between changes in function among patients with lumbar impairments classified according to the STarT Back Screening Tool and managed by McKenzie credentialed physiotherapists.

PURPOSE: To examine the association between functional status (FS) scores using a Patient Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) for patients with non-specific low back pain classified according to psychosocial risk using the STarT Back Screening Tool and managed by physiotherapists credentialed in McKenzie methods. METHODS: Participants (n = 705) completed FS and STarT surveys at intake and discharge. Prevalence of STarT risk classifications and change in STarT risk was calculated. Regression models were developed to examine associations between baseline and change in STarT risk categories, and FS outcomes at discharge from rehabilitation services. RESULTS: FS outcomes at discharge was not significantly different (p-values > 0.10) across baseline STarT risk subgroups after controlling for model covariates. Seventy-eight and 91.5% of medium and high-risk patients respectively decreased STarT risk. When compared with subjects whose STarT risk decreased, there was no significant difference in subjects whose STarT risk remained low. For subjects whose risk remained medium/high, or whose risk worsened, FS outcome scores were statistically significant (p < 0.001) and clinically relevant (-15.76 and -23.42 points respectively) compared to patients whose STarT risk decreased. CONCLUSIONS: Baseline STarT psychosocial risk stratifications should be interpreted cautiously to estimate the likelihood of good or poor FS outcomes at discharge from physiotherapy practice in the US when patients are managed by clinicians credentialed in McKenzie methods. Decreased STarT risk was associated with clinically important improvements in FS outcomes scores at discharge from McKenzie directed physiotherapy care.

Clinical Interpretation of the Neck Functional Status Computerized Adaptive Test.

BACKGROUND: Clinical interpretation of patient-reported outcome measures is an essential step in patient-centered care. Interpretation of scores derived from the Neck Functional Status Computerized Adaptive Test (NFS-CAT) has not been studied. OBJECTIVES: To (1) assess the reliability of point estimates and improvement scores, (2) determine thresholds of minimal clinically important improvement (MCII), and (3) develop a functional staging model to facilitate clinical interpretation of NFS-CAT scores. METHODS: A secondary retrospective cohort analysis was performed using data from patients aged 14 to 89 years who started an episode of care for neck impairments during 2016-2017 and completed the NFS-CAT at admission. The reliability of point estimates and of improvement scores was derived from the NFS-CAT standard error of measurement. The MCII was estimated by combining distribution- and anchor-based approaches. A functional staging model was developed to describe clinical meaningfulness of the quantitative scores provided by the NFS-CAT. RESULTS: Of 250 741 patients who completed the NFS-CAT at admission (mean ± SD age, 54 ± 16 years; 65% female), 169±039 (67%) also completed the NFS-CAT at discharge. The standard error of measurement was stable across the measurement continuum, ranging from 3.7 to 3.9 NFS-CAT points. Minimal detectable improvement was 6.8 points at the 90% confidence level. The estimate of the MCII was 8.1 points, with more change points needed to achieve the MCII for patients with lower baseline scores. Large rates of functional staging change during treatment were observed, demonstrating responsiveness of the functional staging model. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated how the NFS-CAT can be interpreted to better assist clinicians and patients with neck impairments during outpatient rehabilitation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(12):875-886. Epub 10 Jul 2019. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8862.

Directional preference, cognitive behavioural interventions, and outcomes among patients with chronic low back pain.

OBJECTIVES: Graded activity and graded exposure are recommended cognitive behavioural approaches to improve function and pain outcomes for patients receiving physiotherapy for chronic nonspecific low back pain. Directional preference identified following the McKenzie method is also associated with favourable patient outcomes. Study objectives were to examine associations between graded activity and/or graded exposure, and directional preference or no directional preference combined with or without graded activity/graded exposure subgroups, and function and pain outcomes among patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain managed by clinicians credentialed in the McKenzie approach. METHOD: Cohort study: Subjects (n = 801) with chronic nonspecific low back pain completed intake surveys, that is, the Lumbar Computer Adaptive Test measuring function and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale measuring pain, and questions addressing their demographic, lifestyle, and health status. Directional preference was determined at intake. Treatment with graded activity/graded exposure during the episode of care was recorded. Function and pain measures were repeated at discharge. Two models were developed controlling for potential confounding effects. The first model examined associations between patients receiving versus not receiving graded activity/graded exposure. The second model examined interaction effects between four combinations of directional preference and graded activity/graded exposure. Outcome measures were changes in function and pain during rehabilitation. RESULTS: Regarding the first objective, there were no clinically relevant differences between treatment versus no treatment with graded activity/graded exposure, and functional outcomes. Regarding the second objective, patients in the no-directional preference group were more likely to see benefits from the addition of graded activity/graded exposure to their treatment groups than those with a directional preference. CONCLUSION: Clinicians using McKenzie methods might attain improved patient functional outcomes when augmenting treatment with graded activity and/or graded exposure among patients who do not demonstrate directional preference.

Impact of Risk Adjustment on Provider Ranking for Patients With Low Back Pain Receiving Physical Therapy.

Background The impact of risk adjustment on clinic quality ranking for patients treated in physical therapy outpatient clinics is unknown. Objectives To compare clinic ranking, based on unadjusted versus risk-adjusted outcomes for patients with low back pain (LBP) who are treated in physical therapy outpatient clinics. Methods This retrospective cohort study involved a secondary analysis of data from adult patients with LBP treated in outpatient physical therapy clinics from 2014 to 2016. Patients with complete outcomes data at admission and discharge were included to develop the risk-adjustment model. Clinics with complete outcomes data for at least 50% of patients and at least 10 complete episodes of care per clinician per year were included for ranking assessment. The R2 shrinkage and predictive ratio were used to assess overfitting. Agreement between unadjusted and adjusted rankings was assessed with percentile ranking by deciles or 3 distinct quality ranks based on uncertainty assessment. Results The primary sample included 414 125 patients (mean ± SD age, 57 ± 17 years; 60% women) treated by 12 569 clinicians from 3048 clinics from all US states; 82% of patients from 2107 clinics were included in the ranking assessment. The R2 shrinkage was less than 1%, with a predictive ratio of 1. Risk adjustment impacted ranking for 70% or 31% of clinics, based on deciles or 3 distinct quality levels, respectively. Conclusion Important changes in ranking were found after adjusting for basic patient characteristics of those admitted to physical therapy for treatment of LBP. Risk-adjustment profiling is necessary to more accurately reflect quality of care when treating patients with LBP. Level of Evidence Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(8):637-648. Epub 22 May 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.7981.

Directional preference and functional outcomes among subjects classified at high psychosocial risk using STarT.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Physiotherapy has an important role in managing patients with non-specific low back pain who experience elevated psychosocial distress or risk for chronic disability. In terms of evidence-based physiotherapy practice, cognitive-behavioural approaches for patients at high psychosocial risk are the recommended management to improve patient treatment outcomes. Evidence also suggests that directional preference (DP) is an important treatment effect modifier for prescribing specific exercises for patients to improve outcomes. Little is known about the influence of treatment techniques based on DP on outcomes for patients classified as high psychosocial risk using the Subgroups for Targeted Treatment (STarT) Back Screening Tool. This study aimed to examine the association between functional status (FS) at rehabilitation discharge for patients experiencing low back pain classified at high STarT psychosocial risk and whose symptoms showed a DP versus No-DP. METHODS: High STarT risk patients (n = 138) completed intake surveys, that is, the lumbar FS of Focus On Therapeutic Outcomes, Inc., and STarT, and were evaluated for DP by physiotherapists credentialed in McKenzie methods. The FS measure of Focus On Therapeutic Outcomes, Inc., was repeated at discharge. DP and No-DP prevalence rates were calculated. Associations between first-visit DP and No-DP and change in FS were assessed using univariate and multivariate regression models controlling for 11 risk-adjusted variables. RESULTS: One hundred nine patients classified as high STarT risk had complete intake and discharge FS and DP data. Prevalence rate for DP was 65.1%. A significant and clinically important difference (7.98 FS points; p = .03) in change in function at discharge between DP and No-DP was observed after controlling for all confounding variables in the final model. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that interventions matched to DP are effective for managing high psychological risk patients and may provide physiotherapists with an alternative treatment pathway compared to managing similar patients with cognitive-behavioural approaches. Stricter research designs are required to validate study conclusions.

Calibration and validation of an item bank for measuring general physical function of patients in medical rehabilitation settings.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to report the item response theory (IRT) calibration of an 18-item bank to measure general physical function (GPF) in a wide range of conditions and evaluate the validity of the derived scores. METHODS: All 18 items were administered to a large sample of patients (n=2337) who responded to the items in the context of their outpatient rehabilitation care. The responses, collected 1997- 2000, were modeled using the graded response model, an IRT model appropriate for items with two or more response options. Inter-item consistency was evaluated based on Cronbach's alpha and item to total correlations. Validity of scores was evaluated based on known-groups comparisons (age, number of health problems, symptom severity). The strength of a single, general factor was evaluated using a bi-factor model. Results were used to evaluate IRT assumption and as an indicator of construct validity. Local independence of item responses was also evaluated. RESULTS: Response data met the assumptions of unidimensionality and local independence. Explained common variance of a single general factor was 0.88 (omega hierarchical =0.86). Only two of the 153 pairs of item residuals were flagged for local dependence. Inter-item consistency was high (0.93) as were item to total correlations (mean =0.61). Substantial variation was found in both IRT location (difficulty) and discrimination parameters. All omnibus known-groups comparisons were statistically significant (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Item responses fit the IRT unidimensionality assumptions and were internally consistent. The usefulness of GPF scores in discriminating among patients with different levels of physical function was confirmed. Future studies should evaluate the validity of GPF scores based on an adaptive administration of items.

Effect of Adding McKenzie Syndrome, Centralization, Directional Preference, and Psychosocial Classification Variables to a Risk-Adjusted Model Predicting Functional Status Outcomes for Patients With Lumbar Impairments.

Study Design Retrospective cohort. Background Patient-classification subgroupings may be important prognostic factors explaining outcomes. Objectives To determine effects of adding classification variables (McKenzie syndrome and pain patterns, including centralization and directional preference; Symptom Checklist Back Pain Prediction Model [SCL BPPM]; and the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire subscales of work and physical activity) to a baseline risk-adjusted model predicting functional status (FS) outcomes. Methods Consecutive patients completed a battery of questionnaires that gathered information on 11 risk-adjustment variables. Physical therapists trained in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy methods classified each patient by McKenzie syndromes and pain pattern. Functional status was assessed at discharge by patient-reported outcomes. Only patients with complete data were included. Risk of selection bias was assessed. Prediction of discharge FS was assessed using linear stepwise regression models, allowing 13 variables to enter the model. Significant variables were retained in subsequent models. Model power (R(2)) and beta coefficients for model variables were estimated. Results Two thousand sixty-six patients with lumbar impairments were evaluated. Of those, 994 (48%), 10 (<1%), and 601 (29%) were excluded due to incomplete psychosocial data, McKenzie classification data, and missing FS at discharge, respectively. The final sample for analyses was 723 (35%). Overall R(2) for the baseline prediction FS model was 0.40. Adding classification variables to the baseline model did not result in significant increases in R(2). McKenzie syndrome or pain pattern explained 2.8% and 3.0% of the variance, respectively. When pain pattern and SCL BPPM were added simultaneously, overall model R(2) increased to 0.44. Although none of these increases in R(2) were significant, some classification variables were stronger predictors compared with some other variables included in the baseline model. Conclusion The small added prognostic capabilities identified when combining McKenzie or pain-pattern classifications with the SCL BPPM classification did not significantly improve prediction of FS outcomes in this study. Additional research is warranted to investigate the importance of classification variables compared with those used in the baseline model to maximize predictive power. Level of Evidence Prognosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(9):726-741. Epub 31 Jul 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6266.

The Development and Psychometric Properties of the Patient Self-Report Neck Functional Status Questionnaire (NFSQ).

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of cross-sectional data. OBJECTIVE: To describe the development of a new self-report Neck Functional Status Questionnaire (NFSQ) and to assess its psychometric properties and practical application. The NFSQ was designed to assess functional status in patients with cervical (spine) disorders who seek outpatient therapy. BACKGROUND: Many patients seek outpatient therapy due to cervical disorders. Currently, no patient-reported outcome measures exist that capture the ability to perform functional activity in a manner that reflects the experience of this patient population. METHODS: Four hundred thirty-nine patients who were being treated for cervical disorders responded to a set of survey questions to assess activity-related functional outcomes associated with cervical disorders. Using item response theory, we assessed candidate items for unidimensionality and local independence, item fit, person separation, precision, targeting, and differential item functioning. We also compared discriminant validity of functional status measures estimated by the item response theory model (NFSQ fixed) and measures generated using a simulated computerized adaptive test (NFSQ computerized adaptive test). RESULTS: Based on expert opinion and subsequent processing and analyses, a final set of 28 items was used to develop the NFSQ. Unidimensionality and local independence were supported. The mean ± SD sample ability level of 57.6 ± 14.3 (scale range, 0-100) matched well with the mean item difficulty of the NFSQ of 51.3 ± 7.4. Differential item functioning was negligible for levels of age group, sex, and symptom acuity. The NFSQ computerized adaptive test measures were as precise as the NFSQ fixed measures. CONCLUSION: Study results supported the preliminary validity of the 28-item NFSQ for use in assessing patients with different levels of functional status related to their cervical disorders in outpatient rehabilitation settings.