Quality and Independence of Gait Classification Scale for DMD (QIGS-DMD)

Quality and Independence of Gait Classification Scale for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (QIGS-DMD): The Development, Validity and Reliability

The aim of this study was to develop a reliable and valid gait classification scale for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (QIGS-DMD). The items of the QIGS-DMD were designed based on the literature review considering existing functional classification scales, gait scales, and the opinions of the physiotherapists who were expertized in rehabilitation of patients with DMD. Content validity was determined based on the opinions of a total of ten expert physiotherapists. Videos were recorded during gait of 69 children with DMD and inter- and intra-rater reliability were examined. Criterion validity was determined according to the relationship between QIGS-DMD and Motor Function Measure (MFM) and Vignos Lower Extremity Rating Scale (VLERS).

Inclusion Criteria:

• being 5 years old or above, and
• having a confirmed diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• having other coexisting medical or psychiatric diseases or injury and/or surgery related to the lower extremities within the last 6 months