Urdu Translation and Validation of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire

STUDY DESIGN: Clinical measurement study. OBJECTIVES: Translation and validation of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire into Urdu for the Pakistani population. BACKGROUND: The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) is a widely used tool to assess the functional status of the upper limb and hands. It is now available in approximately 20 different languages and has undergone cultural adaptations to check its relevance and appropriateness across respective cultures. However, its Urdu translation has not yet been published. METHODS: The translation was carried out through a rigorous process following previously published guidelines. A total of 140 patients were enrolled as per the selection criteria to complete the final version of Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire–Urdu (MHQ-U), along with the Urdu-translated Short Form 36 (SF-36-U) and the numeric pain-rating scale (NPRS). Reliability and internal consistency were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha (α). The construct’s validity was assessed by examining the correlation between the MHQ-U and other variables. RESULTS: The MHQ-U demonstrated excellent interrater reliability (.994) and test-retest reliability (.988). The α value was .908. A significant correlation was found between the MHQ-U total scores and its subdomains, as well as with the domains of SF-36-U and NPRS ( P<.05). CONCLUSION: These findings support the reliability and validity of the MHQ-U as a useful tool for assessing upper limb and hand dysfunctions in the Pakistani population. JOSPT Methods 2025;1(3):75-80. Epub 15 September 2025. doi:10.2519/josptmethods.2025.0181