Convergent and discriminant validity of the bimanual assessment measure among chronic stroke survivors: A pilot study
Prasanna Rajendra Pujari, Suvarna Shyam GanvirObjectives:
Stroke survivors frequently experience persistent bimanual coordination deficits that impair daily activities, yet validated assessment tools for chronic-phase upper limb function remain limited, particularly in Asian contexts. This pilot study evaluated the convergent and discriminant validity of the bimanual assessment measure (BAM) against established measures in chronic stroke patients.
Material and Methods:
In this cross-sectional study, 19 right-hand dominant adults (>3 months postunilateral stroke; mean age 54.3 ± 13.0 years) from a tertiary hospital underwent video-recorded assessments including BAM, adult assisting hand assessment stroke (Ad-AHA), Jebsen–Taylor hand function test (JTHFT), and nternational Classification of Functioning (ICF) fine hand use components (d4400-d4403). Pearson correlations assessed BAM-AdAHA (convergent) and BAM-JTHFT (discriminant) validity; Spearman correlations examined BAM-ICF relationships ( p < 0.05).
Results:
BAM showed strong convergent validity with Ad-AHA (r = 0.88, p < 0.001). Discriminant validity was supported by a moderate, non-significant negative correlation with JTHFT (r = −0.37, p = 0.133). BAM percentage scores negatively correlated significantly with ICF components: picking up (r = −0.78, p < 0.0001), grasping (r = −0.66, p = 0.002), manipulating (r = −0.75, p = 0.0002), and releasing (r = −0.51, p = 0.025).
Conclusion:
BAM demonstrates robust validity for assessing bimanual hand coordination in chronic stroke, distinguishing it from unimanual dexterity measures while aligning with functional ICF activities. These preliminary findings support BAM’s clinical utility in neurorehabilitation, warranting larger trials for broader applicability in diverse stroke populations. The findings of this pilot study indicate that the BAM is a useful and credible tool for evaluating bimanual hand function in individuals living with chronic stroke.