Validity and reliability of the Finnish version of the Foot and ankle ability measure

Abstract

Background

This study was designed to adapt the Foot and ankle ability measure FAAM to the Finnish language (FAAM-Fi) and to assess its validity and reliability.

Methods

Cross-cultural adaptation was carried out according to the method used by the Outcomes Committee of the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons. The study population completed the FAAM-Fi and a health quality of life instrument 15D three times. The test-retest agreement was assessed by calculating an agreement number for each question. Construct validity was assessed between FAAM-Fi and 15D. Convergent validity was examined by assessing the correlation between the FAAM-Fi and 15D physical component. Divergent validity was examined by assessing the correlation between the FAAM-Fi and the 15D mental component summary.

Results

Partial agreement varied from 89% to 100%. Spearman’s correlation coefficient between 15D and FAAM subscales were 0.51, 0.56 and 0.52 (p<0.0001). Spearman’s correlation coefficient at baseline between the replies to the mobility question and FAAM-Fi subscales were 0.53, 0.54 and 0.60 (p<0.0001). None of the FAAM-Fi scores correlated with the 15D mental component summary at any time point (p=0.075-0.633).

Conclusion

FAAM-Fi was translated and cross-culturally adapted according recommendations and it is valid and reliable for self-reporting of outcomes in connection with foot and ankle disorders for Finnish speaking people in the Finnish culture.