Background
The DASH score was designed to be a standardized assessment of the impact on function of a variety of musculoskeletal disease and injuries in the upper extremity.1
The DASH score consists of 30 questions and is used to assess functional disorders of the upper extremity.
A special feature of the questionnaire is that no differentiation is made between the respective upper extremities. 21 questions test the extent to which the patient has had problems performing certain activities within the last week. The patient is asked to answer the questions regardless of which arm or hand they used for the activity. Thus, the DASH score is not a joint-specific questionnaire but measures the function of both extremities as a whole.2,3
In addition, 6 questions assess specific symptoms (e.g. pain, paraesthesia, sleep disorders) and 3 questions assess social or occupational limitations.
Two optional additional parts also provide the opportunity to describe limitations in playing musical instruments, sports and occupation.
The DASH score was further developed and shortened to the QuickDASH score with 11 questions. The QuickDASH has been assessed separately and has been found to be accurate in identifying individuals or jobs at high risk of musculoskeletal disorders.4 Despite its smaller size, several studies have demonstrated that the QuickDASH Score is a meaningful instrument that can achieve results similar to those of the DASH Score.5 – 8