Interpreting Outcomes 1—Change and Difference: Linking Evidence to Practice

Inconsistency is common when describing outcomes. Outcomes, whether assessed at baseline, during or post treatment, or at follow-up, can be measured in various ways. But there is a critical division that is always relevant, and interpreting the findings of a study is not possible unless the reader understands which side of a metaphorical fence the numbers are on. The 2 sides of this fence can be called change and difference. The distinction between change and difference is critical with respect to interpreting the results of studies of treatment effectiveness, as the 2 types of findings give the reader different kinds of information. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(5):357–358. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.0703