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Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness of the Patient-Specific Functional Scale for Measuring Mobility-Related
Mark M Mañago1, Evan T Cohen, Michelle H Cameron
1Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora (M.M.M., C.L.C., M.B.); Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora (M.M.M.); Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System, Denver, Colorado (M.M.M., C.L.C., M.B.); Department of Physical Therapy, Arcadia University, Glenside, Pennsylvania (E.T.C.); and Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, and VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon (M.H.C.).
The Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) reliably measures mobility goals in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. It demonstrates validity and responsiveness, supporting its use in clinical practice for assessing functional improvements.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Clinical Measurement
- Neurology
Background:
- Investigating the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) for measuring mobility-related goals in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Assessing the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the PSFS in an MS population undergoing rehabilitation.
Discussion:
- The PSFS demonstrated moderate test-retest reliability (ICC 2,1 = 0.70) and responsiveness (Cohen's d = 1.7).
- The minimal detectable change (MDC 95) was 2.1 points, and the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was 2.5 points.
- The PSFS showed significant correlation with the Global Rating of Change (GRoC) scale, indicating patient-perceived improvements.
Key Insights:
- The PSFS is a reliable tool for assessing patient-defined mobility goals in individuals with MS.
- The scale exhibits adequate validity and responsiveness to detect changes following rehabilitation.
- A change of 2.5 points or more on the PSFS indicates a clinically important improvement for MS patients.
Outlook:
- Further research could explore the PSFS across different stages of MS and various intervention types.
- Integrating the PSFS into routine clinical assessments can enhance personalized rehabilitation planning for MS patients.
- The findings support the PSFS as a valuable outcome measure for clinical trials and practice in multiple sclerosis.
