Validity and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Novel Bedside Referral Tool for Spasticity

Validity and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Novel Bedside Referral Tool for Spasticity

The purpose of this study is to improve spasticity diagnosis through development of a simple physical examination guide for primary care providers to identify patients who would benefit from being referred to a movement disorders neurologist for a spasticity evaluation.

The aim of this study is to improve spasticity (a form of muscle rigidity) diagnosis through development of a simple physical examination guide for primary care providers/clinicians. This guide will assist in the identification of patients who would benefit from being referred to a movement disorders neurologist for spasticity evaluation and subsequent treatment. The examination tool will be tested for bedside implementation in all consenting participants residing in Tennessee State Veteran's Home, which is a long-term care facility in Murfreesboro, TN. Each of the 140 residents will receive one neurological examination and two physical examinations guided by the referral tool. A medical record review will also be performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Males or female subjects of any race, aged 18 and above
• Resident of the selected long-term care facility
• The subject, or if appropriate their medical decision maker, is willing and able to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subjects for whom participation in the study may cause medical harm