DASH Score Calculator

Calculate your Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score to assess upper limb function and disability level.

Please rate your ability to do the following activities in the last week:

1. Open a tight jar

2. Write

3. Turn a key

4. Prepare a meal

5. Push open a heavy door

6. Place an object on a shelf above your head

7. Do heavy household chores

8. Garden or do yard work

9. Make a bed

10. Carry a shopping bag

11. Wash your back

12. Use a knife to cut food

13. Recreational activities requiring free arm movement

14. Manage transportation needs

15. Sexual activities

During the past week, to what extent were you limited in your:

16. Sleeping

17. Tingling (pins and needles) in your arm, shoulder or hand

18. Weakness in your arm, shoulder or hand

19. Stiffness in your arm, shoulder or hand

20. Pain

21. Difficulty using your usual technique for your work

During the past week, to what extent have you had:

22. Limited ability to perform usual daily activities

23. Limited ability to participate in recreational activities

24. Problem using your arm, shoulder or hand for work

25. Problem using your arm, shoulder or hand for usual social activities

26. Limited ability to participate in social activities

27. Less productive at work

28. Limited in performing your usual work because of arm, shoulder or hand symptoms

29. Avoiding activities because of arm, shoulder or hand symptoms

30. Troubled by your arm, shoulder or hand symptoms

Quick Examples:

How to Use This Calculator

Answer all 30 questions based on your experience in the past week
Select the most appropriate response for each question
Review your answers to ensure they accurately reflect your condition
Click "Calculate DASH Score" to see your results and interpretation

Formula Used

DASH Score = [(Sum of responses / n) - 1] × 25

Where:

Sum of responses = Total score from all 30 items
n = Number of items completed (30)
The result is scaled to a 0-100 range

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A patient with moderate upper limb dysfunction completes the DASH questionnaire, scoring an average of 3.2 across all items.

Given:

Sum of responses = 96 (30 items × 3.2 average)
n = 30 (number of items)

Calculation:

DASH Score = [(96 / 30) - 1] × 25 = (3.2 - 1) × 25 = 2.2 × 25 = 55

Result: 55/100, indicating moderate disability in upper limb function

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

Assessing severity of upper limb disorders
Monitoring treatment progress over time
Comparing outcomes between different treatment approaches

Key Benefits

Standardized measurement across different conditions
Captures both physical function and symptoms
Validated for research and clinical use

Common Mistakes & Tips

All 30 questions must be answered to calculate an accurate DASH score. If you're unsure about a question, select the response that best represents your situation rather than skipping it.

The DASH assesses multiple aspects of upper limb function, not just pain. Consider all limitations including stiffness, weakness, and difficulty with specific activities when answering each question.

Frequently Asked Questions

DASH scores range from 0 to 100, where 0 indicates no disability and 100 indicates severe disability. Generally: 0-10 = minimal disability, 11-20 = mild disability, 21-40 = moderate disability, 41-60 = severe disability, and 61-100 = very severe disability.

For monitoring treatment progress, the DASH is typically completed at baseline (before treatment), and then at regular intervals such as 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Your healthcare provider will recommend the appropriate frequency for your specific condition.

The DASH is designed to be used for a wide range of upper limb conditions, including fractures, tendon injuries, nerve disorders, arthritis, and repetitive strain injuries. However, there are specialized modules for specific conditions like work-related injuries or sports/performing arts.

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This DASH Score Calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

References

Institute for Work & Health - DASH Outcome Measure - Official DASH questionnaire and scoring information
Hudak PL, Amadio PC, Bombardier C. Development of an upper extremity outcome measure: the DASH - Original validation study published in The American Journal of Industrial Medicine
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - DASH Questionnaire - Official DASH questionnaire form and scoring instructions

Accuracy Notice

The DASH calculator provides an estimate of upper limb disability based on your responses. For a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan, consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific condition in the context of your overall health.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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