Original researchCorrelation of the functional difficulties questionnaire (FDQ-9) with dynamic balance using the SMART instrumented wobbleboard

- Concurrent validity of the FDQ-9 was explored with the SMARTwobbleboard.
- Correlations between the FDQ-9 and balance tasks were reported; SLSEO; DLSEO; DLSEC.
- Moderate statistically significant correlations between FDQ-9 and SLSEO; DLSEO task.
- No correlations with the DLSEC suggesting task exceeded participant abilities.
- Data contributes to the concurrent validity of the FDQ-9.

ObjectivesTo investigate concurrent validity of the Functional Difficulties Questionnaire (FDQ-9) using balance tasks on the SMARTwobbleboard. Poor balance is associated with reduced physical activity which may impact on quality of life. There is a requirement to use simple tests to assess balance so that suitable interventions can be employed to ameliorate poor balance and enhance uptake of physical activity.DesignObservational study employing 30 healthy volunteers who completed the FDQ-9 and undertook three balance tasks on the SMARTwobbleboard: double leg stance eyes open (DLSEO); double leg stance eyes closed (DLSEC) and single leg stance eyes open (SLSEO).ResultsThere were moderate significant correlations between the FDQ-9 and DLSEO and SLSEO. There were significant between group differences in dynamic balance for participants with FDQ-9 ≤ 18 (indicative of no functional difficulties) and FDQ-9 ≥ 19 (indicative of one or more functional difficulties) for DLSEO and SLSEO.ConclusionsSignificant moderate correlations were recorded between the FDQ-9 and the SMARTwobbleboard in healthy adults indicating a relationship between dynamic balance and questionnaire scores (DLSEO and SLSEO). Initial findings contribute to the concurrent validity of the FDQ-9 which could also be used as a simple tool for assessing balance.