Prediction of mobility gains in patients with cervical spinal cord injuries

A measure of mobility for patients with spinal cord injuries is introduced that is very useful in determining patient recovery. The index is used to obtain a prediction equation for motor skills 1 year after injury. Important predictor variables identified include the patient's sex, rectal status, total reflexes, two treatment combinations, motor and sensory neurological history since injury, neurological status, and initial mobility score. Interpretations are made to explain the meaning of the contributions of these variables and show the usefulness of the prediction equation.