Abstract

Stroke survivors experience impaired motor function of affected limbs. However, improvements in motor function are possible and important as it helps reduce its negative effects on the activities of daily living, contributing to better quality of life. Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) is a tool for determining impaired motor functions. This has not been translated to Igbo language and so poses some restrictions for most stroke survivors not literate enough. Hence this study was designed to test psychometrically a cross-culturally adapted Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Igbo stroke survivors.  A total of 40 participants, involving 20 stroke survivors and 20 age- and sex-matched normal subjects completed an Igbo version of the FMA. The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the Igbo translated FMA  tool were assessed using cronbach-α and Spearman correlation respectively while the construct and criterion-related validities were evaluated using independent t-test and Spearman correlation respectively. Level of significance was set at α = 0.05. The items of the FMA instruments, demonstrated an excellent internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.90. The FMA Igbo version had a good test-retest reliability for both the upper extremity (r = 0.636, p = 0.003), and the lower extremity (r = 0.580, p = 0.007). It has an excellent criterion-related validity for both the upper extremity (r = 0.833, p = 0.001), and the lower extremity (r = 0.708, p = 0.001). Finally, it has a excellent construct validity for both the upper extremity (t = 14.497, p < 0.001) and the lower extremity (t = 11.289, p < 0.001). The Igbo version of Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale (for both upper and lower extremities) is a valid and reliable form of the original English version. This Igbo translated version can therefore be used to assess motor functions in Igbo speaking stroke survivors.

Keywords: Motor Function, Igbo, Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale, Psychometric Testing, Stroke Survivors.