Physical function (pooled across scales)

Method

Standardised mean difference for physical function pooled across trials, the source instrument not held constant. The sign convention of the pooled estimate is recorded on the edge and is not optional.

The method is part of the endpoint identity. Studies measuring the same quantity by a different method are held as separate endpoints.

Notes

SIGN INVERSION HAZARD, and it is internal to this node. These pooled SMDs are conventionally signed so that a NEGATIVE value favours treatment, because the constituent instruments are disability and difficulty questionnaires where a higher raw score means worse function. Performance-based function endpoints — six-minute walk test distance, gait speed, CAT:outcome/1rm-strength — improve by RISING and must never be pooled into this node or read against it without re-signing. The WOMAC physical function subscale is a named single instrument in points and belongs to its own node; health-related quality of life is a broader construct that includes non-physical domains. Any edge here that does not carry its sign convention is unusable.