COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF PATIENT MOBILITY

Abstract

The article examines the relevance of objective mobility assessment in patients/clients within the treatment and rehabilitation process as one of the key components of modern physical therapy. Impaired mobility is a common consequence of musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, trauma, surgical interventions, and age-related changes, leading to reduced independence, limitations in daily activities, and a decline in quality of life. The main functional manifestations of reduced mobility are described, including impaired balance, slower gait, decreased endurance, and difficulties with rising, turning, and transitioning between body positions, all of which are important for defining rehabilitation goals.

Current approaches to mobility assessment using standardized diagnostic tools are summarized, including the Timed Up and Go Test, Berg Balance Scale, 6-Minute Walk Test, Functional Reach Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, Tinetti Test, Barthel Index, Functional Independence Measure, Rivermead Mobility Index, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Their main capacities in assessing balance, gait speed, functional endurance, coordination, and the level of independence in daily activities are outlined. The value, ease of use, sensitivity to change, and limitations of each tool are analyzed, making it possible to justify their selection for individual rehabilitation programs.

The importance of a comprehensive approach to mobility assessment, combining several diagnostic methods to obtain a complete and objective picture of the patient’s/client’s functional status, is emphasized. It has been shown that the use of standardized tests contributes to more accurate rehabilitation goal setting, improves the planning of individualized rehabilitation programs and physical therapy as a whole, and allows progress to be monitored over time. The article highlights the appropriateness of each assessment tool in relation to specific clinical objectives and the functional capabilities of the patient/client.