Measurement Properties in People with Hemophilia

Measurement Properties (Reliability and Validity) of a Set of Assessments Evaluating Physical Function in People with Hemophilia

The aim of this project is to determine the measurement properties (namely reliability and validity) of a set of clinical assessments, measuring different aspects of physical function.

The medical treatment of hemophilia has advanced greatly in recent years. There are now medications that reduce the physical symptoms of hemophilia. Nevertheless, those affected by hemophilia suffer from restricted mobility, reduced strength, reduced balance and pain as a result of the repeated bleeding. In order to make well-founded decisions regarding possible supportive therapeutic or medical measures, it is important to be able to estimate the extent of such limitations and whether these will change or remain stable.

The study is needed to validate the measurement properties of measurement instruments used to measure the effects of physical training interventions in participants with hemophilia. Clinical questions can only be solved if measuring instruments with sufficient measuring properties are used. These measurement properties must be evaluated in a relevant population. Otherwise, health professionals cannot assess whether measures or treatment are not effective or whether measured changes are not large enough to detect an actual change. Therefore, research is required to ensure that adequately studied measurement instruments are available for clinical assessment of those affected by adult participants with hemophilia.

Some of the tests (such as the Unipedal Stance Test or Four Square Step Test) have already been studied in children with hemophilia or in participants with other diseases. Since hemophilia is a disease with specific effects, the measuring instruments must also be researched in this participant group. There is still a research gap that the investigators would like to close with this study. For the study, the investigators selected tests that are already being used on adult participants with hemophilia and have had good experiences in practice. The tests are safe and can be carried out with little strain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed Hemophilia Types A or B
• Adult people ≥ 18 years
• Patients on prophylactic factor or non-factor replacement treatment, or on demand factor replacement treatment.
• Able to walk for 20 meters independently, with or without walking aid
• Signed informed consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe health conditions like severe cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological or musculoskeletal diseases.
• Unable to perform the assessments due to disability or language problems.