The L-test in Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a degenerative neurological condition characterized by impairments in balance, mobility and reduced activity levels.
The Timed Up and Go-test (TUG) is a tool which is recommended to assess mobility and falls - however, it only assess a single turn in a preferred direction, which may mask unilateral impairments in PD.
The L -test is a modification of the TUG, which incorporates a longer walking distance and turns in 2 directions.
14 subjects with mild to moderate PD completed 2 timed trials of the TUG and L-test. Tests were repeated 7 days later at the same time of day to establish test-retest reliability.
Results showed the L-test had excellent test-retest reliability and a strong correlation with the TUG test across different walking speeds.
Results suggest the L-test is a reliable and valid measure to assess mobility and falls in PD subjects, however further research to determine if the L-test is superior to the TUG is indicated.
With space constraints in homes the TUG is easier to complete, but the L-test could be considered in clinics to overcome sensitivity for those with unilateral impairments.
> From: Haas et al., Physiotherapy (2018-03-11 10:54:48) (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Click here for the online summary.
