The reliability of the Michigan neuropathy screening instrument Thai version

Abstract

© 2018, Medical Association of Thailand. All rights reserved. Background: The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy as complication of diabetes is high. Appropriate tool is needed for using in primary care. Objective: The present study aimed to assess the intratester and intertester reliability of an instrument for screening peripheral neuropathy, the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) patient form questionnaire and examination. Materials and Methods: The participants were 31 diabetes patients with foot numbness. The questionnaire was cross translated into Thai and administered twice. Two physical therapists performed the foot examinations in the same day and reexamination at one week interval. Results: The test-retest reliability of MNSI patient form was good (ICC = 0.830). For the examination part, the intratester was excellent (ICC = 0.905 to 0.931) and intertesters reliability was good (ICC = 0.780 to 0.869). Conclusion: MNSI is a good screening tool for peripheral neuropathy. The Thai version has good reliability and is recommended to use in outpatient and community settings.