Question

1. Tests and measures useful for indications which ambulatory assistive device is appropriate include:

Select one:

a. balance assessment

b. six minute walk test

c. lower extremity goniometry

d. quality of life survey

Answer 1

The answer is (a)

Balance assessment is a preliminary test to conclude the appropriateness of an AAD. It is used to assess the gait and balance, cognition and the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and neurological systems and the perception of balance and stability in day to day activities.

Example: The Tenetti test is a balance assessment and its reliability scores varied between 80 to 93.6

Time based walk tests: Six minute walk test or a 10 step walk test are few of the tests based on the time period of walking. This may be sufficient in the short term but it is not proportional with the long terms effects and can have a negative implications. For example: The change in the muscular endurance in shifting weights can lead to muscluar atrophy in the long term.

Lower extemity goniometry is not a holistic test to judge the appropriateness. The test fails in Non weight bearing NWB and Partial weight bearing PWB status.

Quality of life survey seems to be an overall test from patient's view point but from a physiotheraphist view it is a narrowly defined question. Patient experiences data have not changed significantly in years and patients generally report positive experiences (95% of them) in relation to communication and autonomy in the ambulatory health care system.