Further Validation of Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 Scores Based on Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters

ObjectiveTo 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).DesignCross-sectional study.SettingUniversity research laboratory.ParticipantsCommunity-residing persons with MS (N=268).InterventionNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresMain 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.ResultsMSWS-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.ConclusionsSuch 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.