Overview

The Continuous Scale Physical Functional Performance (CS-PFP), and its shorter version the Continuous Scale Physical Functional Performance – 10 (CS-PFP10), are valid, reliable, and sensitive measures of physical function.  The test includes functional measures of tasks typically required for independent living.  Tasks are quantified by time, weight and distance.  The composite scores include a total physical functional performance score and summary scores for 5 domains, upper body strength (UBS), upper body flexibility (UBF), lower body strength (LBS), balance and coordination (BALC), and endurance (END).  These summary scores discriminate levels of physical function across populations with a broad range of physical capacity and levels of independence.  The CS-PFP and CS-PFP10 have good reliability and are sensitive to detecting change in function in populations with low (older adults living in assisted living) and high (adults living in the greater community) functional levels. Raw data is recorded on an excel datasheet by hand.  Scoring is accomplished by entering the raw data into the Physical Functional Performance Data Management software program.

The overall philosophy of the CS-PFP10 test developers was to allow the client to select the strategy to perform the task and to perform it at maximal effort. Two factors in particular contribute to the robust psychometric properties of these tests: administration in a standardized environment and adherence to a standardized dialogue.  The tasks are administered in a standardized environment with standardized distances and equipment. 

The CS-PFP10 is a test of functional capacity.  The client is instructed to perform each task at maximal effort within the client’s judgment of comfort and safety.  The tasks are ordered by level of difficulty from easiest to most difficult.  This ordering allows for acquisition of the greatest amount of information on a client who is unable to complete the entire test.  Safety is a primary consideration of the CS-PFP administration. A video link may be viewed to see how safety is addressed and special populations are considered in the performance of the CS-PFP. 

Developed with a grant from the National Institutes of Health, the CS-PFP has been validated against physiological capacity measures and is predictive of living status.  It is used in rehabilitation facilities, research laboratories, and retirement communities to assess function in older adults, people with chronic diseases (Parkinson’s Disease, fibromyalgia, low back pain) and those recovering from acute conditions (e.g. hip fracture repair, total knee replacement, stroke).  The CS-PFP has also been used effectively as an evaluation tool for program efficacy.  For a list of publications or more information please contact Dr. Elaine Cress

Start of page

News and Updates

Fall 2009 Newsletter

March 4, 2009 Newsletter

Tuesday, July 15, 2008 Newsletter

Upcoming Training

CS-PFP Spring Training
March 5 and 6, 2010

The University of Georgia