Evidence-Based Rating of Upper-Extremity Motor Function Tests Used for People Following a Stroke

Tests of upper-extremity motor function used for people following a stroke have been described, but reliability and validity (psychometric properties) of measurements obtained with these tests have not been consistently established. This investigation was performed: (1) to review literature relative to upper-extremity motor function testing during rehabilitation following a stroke, (2) to develop selection criteria for identifying these tests in the literature, and (3) to rate the tests relative to their psychometric properties.METHODLiterature searches were done using 2 databases. Reports of 4 psychometric properties were sought: interrater reliability, test-retest reliability, convergent validity or concurrent validity, and predictive validity.RESULTSNine tests met the inclusion criteria of having psychometric properties reported in the literature. No test had evidence for all 4 psychometric properties. Only the Nine-Hole Peg Test was supported by 3 out of 4 properties. Most tests had 2 properties supported. Concurrent validity or convergent validity was most frequently described; test-retest reliability was least frequently described.CONCLUSIONSMore complete psychometric support is needed for upper-extremity motor function tests applied following a stroke. The absence of psychometric support, however, does not mean that a test has no value. Clinicians are cautioned not to generalize psychometric evidence.