Background: The goal of treatment for a proximal hamstring avulsion (PHA) is an objectively restored muscle and a subjectively satisfied, pain-free patient at follow-up. Different self-reported and performance-based outcome measures have been used to evaluate recovery, but their validity is poorly investigated. Purpose: To investigate 1) the correlation between the commonly used self-reported outcome measurements, the Perth Hamstring Assessment Tool (PHAT) and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS); 2) to what extent these scores can be explained by physical dysfunction as measured by performance-based tests; 3) whether performance-based tests can discriminate between the injured and uninjured extremity; and 4) which activity limitations are perceived by patients several years after the injury. Study design: Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. Methods: We included a consecutive series of patients treated for or diagnosed with PHA in our department between 2007 and 2016 having at least 2 tendons avulsed from the ischial tuberosity. Participants attended 2 study visits, answered questionnaires (PHAT, LEFS, and Patient-Specific Functional Scale [PSFS]), and performed physical performance–based tests (single-leg hop tests, single–step down test, and isometric and isokinetic strength tests). Results: A total of 50 patients were included (26 men [52%], 24 women [48%]; mean age, 50.9 years [SD, 9.8 years]). The mean follow-up time was 5.5 years (SD, 2.7 years), and 74% had been surgically treated. The correlation between PHAT and LEFS was strong ( r = 0.832) and statistically significant ( P < .001). Seven of the performance-based tests exhibited a statistically significant but weak correlation with LEFS (0.340-0.488) and 3 of the tests to PHAT (–0.304 to 0.406). However, only peak torque could significantly discriminate between the extremities. The activity limitation most commonly mentioned in PSFS was running (16 patients [32%]). Conclusion: Although PHAT and LEFS correlated strongly, the correlations between functional tests and the patient-reported outcome scores were weak, and most functional tests failed to discriminate between the injured and uninjured lower extremity in patients with PHA 5 years after injury. In general, patients alleged few activity limitations, but running difficulty was a common sequela after PHA.
The Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS): Scale Development, Measurement Properties, and Clinical Application