[Evaluation of the disabilities of hemiplegic patients]

To identify and describe the most useful functional disability scales for assessing post-stroke hemiplegic patients and those used largely in clinical trials.

A literature review of Medline about the functional parameters for balance, gait and mobility, upper extremity functional abilities, and activities of daily living. The metrologic properties of the scales were specified as were their clinical use.

Thirty-three scales were evaluated and classified into five categories: balance (6 scales), gait and mobility (4), upper limb function (11), global motricity scales (5) and independence in activities of daily living (7).

Many functional scales are useful for assessing post-stroke hemiplegic patients. To assess balance, the Postural Assessment Stroke Scale and Berg Balance Scale are the most interesting. The Functional Ambulation Classification and the Timed Up and Go Test are the most relevant to assess gait and mobility. The Action Research Arm Test is largely used to assess upper limb functional abilities. The Functional Independence Measure and the Barthel Index are largely used to assess independence in activities of daily living.