# What is the Oswestry Disability Index?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-is-the-oswestry-disability-index
For: Clinicians | Physiotherapy practice | Last updated 19 October 2026

**Answer:** The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is a patient-reported questionnaire that measures how low-back symptoms affect daily activities such as personal care, lifting, walking, sitting, standing, sleep, social life and travel. It helps track disability over time when the official version and scoring method are used correctly. The score describes reported disability, not the underlying diagnosis, so it is read alongside examination, red-flag screening, goals and changes in activity.

### Using the ODI well

- It does not diagnose a disc or other structural problem; it measures disability related to low-back symptoms.
- It may be useful after surgery when clinically appropriate and interpreted in context.
- Handle missing items using the official scoring rules.
- Use the same version and language at baseline and follow-up.

> **Important:** New bladder or bowel loss, saddle sensory change, progressive weakness, fever or major trauma requires urgent medical assessment regardless of questionnaire score.

> **Important:** If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact emergency services now. In Kenya, call 999, 112 or 911. Outside Kenya, use the emergency number for your location.

## Related questions

- [How is balance assessed in physiotherapy?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-is-balance-assessed-in-physiotherapy)
- [How is functional mobility assessed?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-is-functional-mobility-assessed)
- [How is pain assessed in physiotherapy?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-is-pain-assessed-in-physiotherapy)

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