The DASH is a self-report questionnaire that measures physical function and symptoms in people with musculoskeletal disorders of the arm, shoulder and hand.

The DASH and its shorter version, the QuickDASH, are used by clinicians and researchers around the world to describe the disability experienced by people with upper-limb disorders—disorders of the arm, shoulder and hand—and to monitor changes in symptoms and function over time. Both tools are valid, reliable and responsive.

The DASH and QuickDASH were jointly developed by the Institute for Work & Health, an independent, not-for-profit organization located in Toronto, Canada, and the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Our tools

DASH

The DASH Outcome Measure is a 30-item questionnaire. It can be used to assess any or all joints in the upper extremity. The DASH contains two optional modules intended to measure function and symptoms in athletes, performing artists and other workers whose jobs require a high degree of physical performance.

QuickDASH

The QuickDASH is a shorter, 11-item version of the DASH Outcome Measure. It also has two optional modules intended to measure symptoms and function in athletes, performing artists and other workers whose jobs require a high degree of physical performance. 

Translations

The DASH and QuickDASH are available in more than 50 languages and dialects.

Translations follow a process designed to make sure that translated items mean the same as the source versions, both linguistically and culturally. This allows greater confidence that the translations describe symptoms and functions in a similar manner across multinational trials and evaluations.

Find translations or learn about the translation process

 

 

Frequently visited pages

FAQs

We have compiled a list of questions about the DASH and QuickDASH that users have asked over the years.

Browse through the questions

Licences

Several licenses are available for commercial and free use of the DASH Outcome Measure and the QuickDASH.

Learn about the licenses available

Terms and conditions

Use of the DASH or QuickDASH stipulates agreement to several terms and conditions. Please familiarize yourself with them before use.

See the terms and conditions