What is a common outcome measure used in physical therapy?

The Oswestry Disability Index is a widely recognized outcome measure used specifically to assess the degree of disability and functional impairment in individuals with lower back pain. It consists of a questionnaire that evaluates various aspects such as pain intensity, personal care, lifting, walking, sitting, standing, sleeping, social life, traveling, and employment. The results help physical therapists determine the impact of back pain on a patient's daily activities and quality of life, guiding treatment plans and measuring progress over time.

In comparison, while the Barthel Index is focused on measuring the performance of daily living activities often used in rehabilitation settings, it is more centered on mobility and self-care tasks rather than specific pain-related disability. The Beck Depression Inventory specifically addresses mental health and measures symptoms of depression, which is outside the scope of physical therapy outcomes related to physical function. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment is primarily designed to assess physical recovery following a stroke, focusing on motor function, sensory function, balance, and joint range of motion. While useful in its context, it is not as universally applicable for various conditions as the Oswestry Disability Index is for those with lower back pain.