Assessment of Lower Limb Motor Function, Ambulation, and Balance After Stroke

Yeun Jie Yoo, Seong Hoon Lim, Yeun Jie Yoo, Seong Hoon Lim

Abstract

Restoration of ambulation is important for stroke patients. Valid and reliable methods are required for the assessment of lower limb functional status. We reviewed the psychometric properties of methods employed to assess lower extremity motor function, ambulation, and balance, with a focus on stroke patients. We define "motor function" as the ability to produce bodily movements when the brain, motor neurons, and muscles interact. "Ambulation" is defined as the ability to walk with or without a personal assistive device, and "balance" as the ability to maintain stability (without falling) during various physical activities. The Motricity Index and Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremities assess the motor function of the lower limbs. The Functional Ambulation Category, 10-m Walk Test, and 6-minute Walk Test assess ambulation. The Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, Functional Reach Test, and Trunk Impairment Scale explore balance. All these tests exhibit high-level validity and have good inter-rater and test-retest reliabilities. However, only 3 methods have been formally translated into Korean. The methods discussed here can be used for standardized assessment, personalized goal setting, rehabilitation planning, and estimation of therapeutic efficacy.

Keywords: Ambulation; Assessment; Balance; Lower Extremity; Motor Function; Physical Functional Performance; Postural Balance; Stroke.

Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: The corresponding author of this manuscript is an editor of Brain & NeuroRehabilitation. The corresponding author did not engage in any part of the review and decision-making process for this manuscript. The other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.

Copyright © 2022. Korean Society for Neurorehabilitation.

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