Overview
The Harris Hip Score (HHS) is an assessment tool used to evaluate functional capacity and quality of life in patients with hip disorders. It was developed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of hip condition, taking into account pain, functionality, and the general condition of the joint.
Description
The HHS consists of two main components: Pain, which assesses the severity of hip-related pain during various activities, and Function, which measures the patient’s ability to perform daily and physical activities.
The scale includes a total of 8 questions covering pain, walking ability, the ability to climb and descend stairs, dressing and undressing, and range of motion and joint function. Responses are scored using a Likert-type scale. The total score typically ranges from 0 (worst condition) to 100 (best condition).
Analysis
Data collection involves patients completing the HHS questionnaire by answering questions about their hip pain and functional ability. Scoring is done based on predefined criteria, and the total score is calculated as the sum of all item scores. The results are interpreted to assess the severity of the hip condition, the patient’s functional ability, and overall quality of life.
Purpose
The main objectives of the HHS are to evaluate pain and function by quantifying pain intensity and functional capacity, to identify treatment needs by detecting areas where therapeutic intervention may be necessary, and to track progress by monitoring changes in hip condition over time and assessing the effectiveness of treatments.
Calibration
Calibration involves defining clear criteria for the evaluation of pain and functionality, training healthcare professionals in the proper use and interpretation of the scale, and conducting systematic reviews of the scale to maintain the validity and reliability of its measurements.
References
Harris, W. H. (1969). A modified acetabular reaming procedure for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 51(4), 707–724.
Harris, W. H. (1993). The Harris Hip Score: A Method for Evaluating Total Hip Replacement. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 75(4), 607–616.
Klassbo, M., et al. (2003). The Harris Hip Score: Validity and Reliability of the Swedish Version. Acta Orthopaedica Scandinavica, 74(6), 795–800.