United States multi-center study to assess the validity and reliability of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III)

Sara Salles, DO, University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Site PI)

Study Purpose

This clinical research study will be performed to assess the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III) in measuring functional ability in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Aims and Hypothesis:

Overall hypothesis - The SCIM III is a valid, reliable, and sensitive measure of functional ability in persons with SCI.

Aim 1: Examine the validity of the SCIM III as an outcome measure to assess functional ability in persons with SCI.

• Criterion-related validity
• Construct validity of components

Aim 2: Examine the reliability of SCIM III evaluations.

• Inter-rater reliability
• Internal consistency

Aim 3: Examine the sensitivity of the SCIM III to functional change.

• Sensitivity to functional change compared to the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
• Sensitivity to functional change over time