Reliability of a tool for assessing mobility in wheelchair-dependent paraplegics

The aim of this study was to design and test the reliability of an assessment tool that could be used by physiotherapists to quantify the mobility of wheelchair-dependent paraplegics. The assessment tool examined six key tasks fundamental to the mobility of wheelchair-dependent paraplegics, comprising moving from lying to sitting, completing a horizontal transfer, completing a vertical transfer, pushing on flat ground, pushing on ramps and negotiating kerbs. A six-point scoring system was used to assess the level of mobility attained by subjects on each task. The scoring system was different for each task and took into account the level of assistance and time required to complete the task or the complexity of the task. Twenty wheelchair-dependent paraplegics were assessed independently by two therapists using the assessment tool. The Cohen's Weighted Kappas describing inter-rater reliability of each task ranged between 0.82-0.96, indicating a high reliability between therapists. It was concluded that the assessment tool is a reliable way of assessing the mobility of wheelchair-dependent paraplegics.