Cognitive processing speed has minimal influence on the construct validity of Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• The Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12) is a key patient-reported outcome for assessing walking difficulties in multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Understanding factors influencing MSWS-12 scores is crucial for accurate patient assessment and treatment evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether cognitive processing speed (CPS) affects the construct validity of the MSWS-12.
• To determine if CPS influences the relationship between MSWS-12 scores and objective measures of ambulation.

Main Methods:

• 96 participants with MS completed the MSWS-12, neurological examination (EDSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) for CPS, Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW), GAITRite™ (FAP), and Six-minute Walk (6MW).
• Statistical analyses, including correlation and hierarchical linear regression, were used to examine the relationships between variables, controlling for demographic and disease factors.

Main Results:

• The SDMT (CPS measure) showed significant correlations with MSWS-12, T25FW, 6MW, FAP, and EDSS scores.
• MSWS-12 scores were significantly correlated with T25FW, 6MW, FAP, and EDSS scores.
• Hierarchical regression analyses confirmed that T25FW, 6MW, FAP, and EDSS remained significant correlates of MSWS-12 scores even after controlling for CPS (SDMT).

Conclusions:

• Cognitive processing speed demonstrated minimal influence on the construct validity of the MSWS-12 in this cohort of MS patients.
• The MSWS-12 appears to be a robust measure of walking impairment, largely independent of cognitive processing speed in individuals with MS.