How to use the Quick DASH Calculator?

1. Answer the questions: The tool consists of 11 main questions about your ability to perform various activities and your symptoms related to your arm, shoulder, or hand. Each question has five response options ranging from "No difficulty" to "Unable" or equivalent severity levels.

2. Be honest and accurate: When answering the questions, consider your ability to perform the activities during the past week. Choose the response that best describes your experience.

3. Complete at least 10 questions: For a valid Quick DASH score, you must answer at least 10 out of the 11 questions. If you skip more than one question, the calculator will not provide a score.

4. Calculate your score: After answering the questions, click the "Calculate Quick DASH Score" button. The tool will automatically calculate your score and display it on the screen.

5. Interpret your results: The Quick DASH score ranges from 0 to 100, where 0 indicates no disability and 100 represents maximum disability. The tool provides a brief interpretation of your score, categorizing it as minimal, moderate, or severe disability. This interpretation helps you understand the impact of your upper extremity condition on your daily activities.

6. Consider the optional Work Module: If you're interested in assessing how your upper extremity condition affects your work performance, you can complete the additional Work Module. This section consists of four questions specifically related to your ability to perform work-related tasks.

7. Complete the Work Module: Answer all four questions in the Work Module, considering your work performance over the past week. Like the main questionnaire, each question has five response options ranging from "No difficulty" to "Unable."

8. Calculate the Work Module score: After answering all four questions in the Work Module, click the "Calculate Work Module Score" button. The tool will compute a separate score for this module.

9. Review the Work Module results: The Work Module score also ranges from 0 to 100, with 0 indicating no work-related disability and 100 representing maximum work-related disability. The tool provides an interpretation of this score, helping you understand the impact of your condition on your work performance.

10. Track your progress: Consider using the Quick DASH Calculator periodically to monitor changes in your condition over time. This can be particularly useful when undergoing treatment or rehabilitation for an upper extremity disorder.

11. Share results with healthcare providers: The Quick DASH score and Work Module score can be valuable information for your healthcare providers. Consider sharing these results with your doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist to help guide your treatment plan and assess your progress.

12. Be aware of limitations: The Quick DASH is a subjective measure based on your self-reported abilities and symptoms. It may not capture all aspects of your condition or function. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a complete evaluation and diagnosis.

By following these steps, you can effectively use the Quick DASH Calculator to assess and monitor your upper extremity function. This tool can provide valuable insights into your condition and help facilitate communication with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and functional limitations.