Further validation of multiple sclerosis walking scale-12 scores based on spatiotemporal gait parameters

Abstract

Objective: To examine the association between Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12) scores and spatiotemporal parameters of gait as indicators of gait quality among ambulatory persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting: University research laboratory.

Participants: Community-residing persons with MS (N=268).

Intervention: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: Main outcome measures included the MSWS-12 and spatial and temporal gait parameters (walking speed, cadence, step length, step time, base of support [ie, the distance between 1 footfall and the line of progression of the opposing foot], and percentage of gait cycle spent in double support). Secondary outcomes included the timed 25-foot walk (T25FW), 6-minute walk (6MW), and Patient-Determined Disease Steps scale.

Results: MSWS-12 scores were significantly correlated with walking speed (r=-.59), cadence (r=-.50), step length (r=-.53), step time (r=.46), base of support (r=.29), and percentage of the gait cycle spent in double support (r=.54). MSWS-12 scores further were significantly correlated with T25FW (r=.57) and 6MW (r=-.75) scores.

Conclusions: Such findings suggest that the MSWS-12 captures aspects of walking quality, assessed as spatiotemporal parameters of gait, in addition to walking speed and endurance in persons with MS.