Performance Measures for Upper Extremity Functions in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis.

Recent studies suggest that upper extremity dysfunction is a quite common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS), and affects adversely the activities of daily living even in the early stages of the disease. It is an undeniable fact that assessment is a crucial component for a disease management. The performance is defined as "what an individual does in his or her current environment" according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Performance measures for upper extremity have been used relatively recent in persons with MS. ABILHAND, Manual Ability Measurement (MAM), Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Outcome Measure, and Motor Activity Log are commonly used perceived performance measures for upper extremity functions in persons with MS. Because of their modern psychometric properties, ABILHAND and MAM stands out from other measures. Only available actual performance measures for upper extremity functions in persons with MS are accelerometers. In addition to their advantages, they have some disadvantages waiting to be solved.