DASH Score Calculator

The DASH Score Calculator estimates your upper limb disability/function score based on 30 questions regarding daily tasks and symptoms. This tool helps patients and therapists assess recovery progress and identify functional limitations. Whether you are recovering from surgery, managing a musculoskeletal disorder, or tracking treatment effectiveness, this calculator provides an objective measurement of your arm and shoulder health.

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 Upper Limb Disability/Function Score Is Calculated

The DASH score measures the ability of your upper limb to perform daily tasks without pain or difficulty. To calculate it, you answer 30 questions about physical function and symptoms. We then use a specific formula to transform your answers into a single score.

DASH Score = [(Sum of item scores / 30) - 1] × 25

Steps to calculate:

Rate each task or symptom from 1 (no difficulty) to 5 (unable/extreme).
Add up the numbers from all 30 questions to get a total raw score.
Convert the raw score using the formula above to get a value between 0 and 100.

This mathematical method ensures that 0 always represents no disability and 100 represents severe disability. This standardized approach is widely used by clinicians to ensure your results are accurate and reliable.

What Your Upper Limb Disability/Function Score Means

Your score represents how much pain or difficulty you experience during daily activities. A lower score means better function, while a higher score indicates more severe problems.

Minimal Disability (0–10): You have near-normal function and can perform almost all activities with ease. You are likely ready to return to sports or manual labor without major restrictions.
Moderate Disability (21–40): You struggle with heavier tasks like carrying groceries or washing your back. Focus on physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength.
Severe Disability (60+): Daily tasks are very hard, and you may struggle with self-care or work duties. Consult a specialist to adjust your treatment plan immediately.

Important: This tool is a screening instrument only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition.

Retake this questionnaire every few weeks to track your recovery. Seeing your score drop over time is a great sign that your treatment is working.