M.S.: Alternatives to Trunk Impairment Scale

Hi there,

I'm working as a physio for a Multiple Sclerosis centre here in the UK and we currently use the Trunk Impairment Scale for M.S. for assessment of trunk impairment before and after intervention. From my experience so far, it appears to be a very sensitive and specific outcome measure. However, the scale is not always suitable for some of our more acute and weaker patients. After perusing online for a while, I have been unable to find another suitable alternative. I was wondering if anyone had heard of and/or was using a different form of trunk assessment than this particular one that we could trial with our patients.

Thank you all in advance for taking the time to read this.

Zimmith

I am not quite sure what you are trying to capture here. I take it that you want to use something for very weak/acute patients - but is it at an activity limitaton or impairment level. At an impairment level I don't think there is much else out there.

have you thought about using the Expanded Disability Status Scale? this may be a bit crude for what you want but it probably doesn't have floor effects and would capture the patient's inability to sit.

Have you read this review article? It is getting a bit old but it summarises the available measures well - unless something better has come along since 2002.

Outcome measures to quantify the effects of physical therapy for people with multiple sclerosis | Neurology Report | Find Articles at BNET

To gcoe,

Thanks very much for your reply. After discussing this with my colleagues we came to the same conclusion and will use the EDSS in future to assess patients who cannot start the TIS. Thanks again.

Zimmith