J Hand Ther. 2026 Sep 21:S0894-1130(26)00064-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jht.2026.06.006. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: No validated Serbian-language patient-reported outcome measure exists for wrist and hand conditions. The Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) demonstrates superior responsiveness over broader instruments such as the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) for pathology confined to the wrist and hand.
PURPOSE: To translate, culturally adapt, and validate the PRWHE for Serbian-speaking patients with hand and wrist disorders.
STUDY DESIGN: Clinical measurement, cross-sectional validation study.
METHODS: One hundred sixty-three patients (52.1% male; mean age 52.4 ± 15.8 years) with hand and wrist conditions were enrolled. Translation adhered to internationally accepted cross-cultural adaptation guidelines. Participants completed the Serbian PRWHE, DASH, and SF-12. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α), test-retest reliability (ICC; n = 15, 2-week interval), confirmatory factor analysis, and convergent validity (Pearson/Spearman correlations) were assessed.
RESULTS: Internal consistency was excellent for the Pain (α = 0.90) and Function (α = 0.94) subscales. Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.92-0.98; p < 0.001), with no systematic bias on Bland-Altman analysis (p = 0.550). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the two-factor structure with satisfactory loadings (range: 0.73-0.93; RMSEA = 0.09; CFI = 0.95). Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations with the DASH (r = 0.23, p < 0.001) and moderate negative correlations with the SF-12 Physical Component Summary (r = -0.33 to -0.43, p < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: The Serbian PRWHE demonstrates strong psychometric properties and is a valid, reliable instrument for assessing pain and functional disability in wrist and hand conditions. Its availability enables standardized, patient-centered assessment in Serbian-speaking populations and supports cross-cultural research in hand therapy.
PMID:42767875 | DOI:10.1016/j.jht.2026.06.006