Evaluating Lower Limb Motor Impairment

Lower limb motor impairment was evaluated through the leg subscale of the Motricity Index (MI), which evaluates the strength of the affected leg and ranges from 0 (maximal impairment) to 100 (no impairment). Patients were also involved in a walking test: they were asked to walk three times over the GaitRite mat (CIR Systems Inc.), an electronic walkway incorporating pressure-sensitive pads, at self-selected speed using their usual walking aid (if any) or receiving the required assistance. Spatio-temporal gait parameters (gait speed, stance time, and double support time) were measured through the GaitRite software. A gait symmetry index (ST ratio) was computed as the ratio between the percentage stance time of the affected and unaffected leg.14 (link)