Validation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Persian version of Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique (CHART) short form.

Objective: To test the psychometric specifications of the Persian version of the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique (CHART) short form in an Iranian population.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Subjects: Fifty-two individuals with a mean age of 49.3 years (SD 7.9, minimum 38 years and maximum 80 years), who had chronic spinal cord lesions, were included in this study. Most of them were paraplegic (88.5%) and unemployed (76.9%).

Methods: Reliability (internal consistency) of the measure was examined by applying Cronbach's alpha. In addition, validity (construct) was tested by Pearson's correlation.

Results: Overall, the internal consistency of the questionnaire was found to be satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha 0.613). Regarding construct validity, the minimum and maximum significant correlations were among Physical Component Summery and Cognitive Independence (r = 0.267, p < 0.05), Vitality and Social Integration (r = -0.429, p < 0.01) respectively.

Conclusion: By analyzing data regarding the psychometric specifications of the Persian version of CHART, we can conclude that this version is a valid, reliable and unique measure that can be used for spinal cord-injured individuals. As demonstrated in our preliminary study, it is easy to be filled out and is not confusing. Implications for Rehabilitation The Persian version of the CHART has been successfully validated. It can be used by those working specifically in the field of spinal cord injury and also more generally. It will enable both initial assessment and follow-up for people in Persian-speaking areas of the world.