Back Index Calculator

Oswestry Back Pain Disability Index Formula:

\[ Index = \frac{Sum\ Scores}{Sections \times 5} \times 100 \]

Index:

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1. What is the Oswestry Back Pain Disability Index?

The Oswestry Back Pain Disability Index is a validated questionnaire used to measure the degree of functional disability in patients with low back pain. It assesses how back pain affects various aspects of daily living.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Oswestry Index formula:

\[ Index = \frac{Sum\ Scores}{Sections \times 5} \times 100 \]

Where:

\( Sum\ Scores \) — Total points from all sections (0-50)
\( Sections \) — Number of sections completed (usually 10)
\( 5 \) — Maximum score per section
\( 100 \) — Conversion to percentage

Explanation: The formula calculates the percentage of disability by comparing the actual score against the maximum possible score.

3. Importance of Back Index Calculation

Details: The Oswestry Index helps healthcare professionals quantify back pain disability, track treatment progress, and make informed decisions about patient care and rehabilitation strategies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the sum of scores from all completed sections (0-5 points per section) and the number of sections assessed. Typically, 10 sections are used in the standard questionnaire.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do the different index ranges indicate?
A: 0-20% minimal disability, 21-40% moderate disability, 41-60% severe disability, 61-80% crippled, 81-100% bed-bound or exaggerating symptoms.

Q2: How many sections are in the standard Oswestry questionnaire?
A: The standard version has 10 sections covering pain intensity, personal care, lifting, walking, sitting, standing, sleeping, sex life, social life, and traveling.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for partial questionnaires?
A: Yes, but results may not be directly comparable to standard interpretations if fewer than 10 sections are used.

Q4: How often should the index be measured?
A: Typically measured at initial assessment and then periodically (e.g., monthly) to track treatment progress.

Q5: Are there limitations to this index?
A: It may be less sensitive to small changes in function and can be influenced by patient mood and other psychosocial factors.