Abstract
The PRESS to Function Approach is designed to provide a systematic method of evaluating upper extremity function of musculoskeletal disorders. It is based on six constructs: pain, range of motion, edema, strength, sensibility, and functional ability. The approach avoids rendering incomplete hand and upper extremity evaluations and reassessments. The acronym is catchy enough for the novice therapist to make a mental check of what areas may be relevant during the session.
Primary Author and Speaker: Phyllis Ross
Additional Authors and Speakers: Felecia Banks
The aim of this study is to examine the development of a conceptual framework and provide evidence for reliability and responsiveness of the PRESS to Function Approach as an outcome measure used to assess upper extremity function. The PRESS to Function Approach is designed to be used at the point-of-care by therapists and will serve as a valuable approach for evaluating and monitoring progress in the recovery of upper extremity function. The acronym is representative of an identifiable way to insure the necessary components of Pain, Range of Motion, Edema, Strength, Sensibility (PRESS), and self-reported Function have been properly assessed to create a baseline at the initial evaluation. Each of the assessment tools used for the PRESS to Function Approach assist occupational therapists in determining appropriate interventions and therapeutic activities. Individually the chosen outcome measurement/assessment tools have reliability and validity to its specific construct; however, a systematic method is necessary to address all aspects of upper extremity impairment. This will provide occupational therapists an accurate measure to track the progression of a patient. A single-site reliability study was conducted using 30 subjects with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders from an outpatient private practice clinic. Subjects were evaluated using the PRESS to Function Approach. Internal Consistency Reliability and Test-Retest Reliability will be determined using the retrospective data. Preliminary findings were analyzed using Cronbach’s alpha ranges and correlation coefficient with SPSS Version 22.0 to determine if PRESS to Function is an effective approach to use in clinical practice on a preliminary group.
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