The reliability and validity of the Korean version of the spine functional index

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to establish the reliability and validity of the Korean version of the Spine Functional Index (K-SFI), a translated version of the original SFI used with patients with spinal disorders. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty participants with spine disorder, 22 males and 38 females, participated in the study. Reliability was determined by using the intra class correlation coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency. Validity was examined by correlating K-SFI scores with the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), Neck Disability index (NDI), and the Functional Rating Index (FRI). [Results] Test-retest reliability was 0.94. The criterion-related validity was established by comparison with the Korean version of the RMDQ, NDI and FRI. [Conclusion] The Korean version of the SFI was shown to be a reliable and valid instrument for assessing spine complaints.