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A systematic review of the application and psychometric properties of the graded Wolf Motor Function Test

Turtle, Beverley; Porter-Armstrong, Alison; Stinson, May

Authors

Beverley Turtle

May Stinson



Abstract

Introduction
Adapted from the Wolf Motor Function Test, the graded Wolf Motor Function Test is an upper limb activity assessment for use following stroke and brain injury. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and appraise evidence where the test has been used or has undergone psychometric evaluation.

Method
A systematic review of five databases was conducted to identify studies reporting the graded Wolf Motor Function Test using a keyword search. Intervention and clinical measurement studies were eligible for inclusion. Data quality was assessed using the adapted Critical Appraisal Skills Programme questions and the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments Risk of Bias checklist.

Results
Twelve studies, of mostly low quality, were included. Studies included one randomised controlled trial, 10 pre- and post-studies and one clinical measurement study. All studies involved participants following stroke. Reliability was the only measurement property assessed in two studies, which were of a ‘doubtful’ and ‘poor’ quality.

Conclusion
Low quality studies impede the ability of clinicians and researchers to best determine the applicability of the graded Wolf Motor Function Test to patient groups and research contexts. Further exploration of the psychometric properties of the graded Wolf Motor Function Test is recommended across stroke populations using rigorous design methods.

Citation

Turtle, B., Porter-Armstrong, A., & Stinson, M. (2020). A systematic review of the application and psychometric properties of the graded Wolf Motor Function Test. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 83(5), 285-296. https://doi.org/10.1177/0308022619879074

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Sep 23, 2019
Online Publication Date Oct 9, 2019
Publication Date 2020-05
Deposit Date Nov 10, 2021
Journal British Journal of Occupational Therapy
Print ISSN 0308-0226
Electronic ISSN 1477-6006
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 83
Issue 5
Pages 285-296
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/0308022619879074
Keywords Stroke, outcome assessment (healthcare), upper limb, psychometrics, occupational therapy
Public URL http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2820360