4-item Dynamic Gait Index

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Introduction[edit | edit source]

Blender3D NormalWalkCycle.gif

The 4-Item Dynamic Gait Index is a shortened version of the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) utilizing only the first four items. It is used for the clinical assessment of walking function and has been examined in patients with balance deficits, vestibular disorders, and those post stroke.[1][2]

Administering Test[edit | edit source]

The first four items utilized from the DGI include:

  1. Horizontal head turns[2]
  2. Vertical head turns[2]
  3. Gait on level surfaces[2]
  4. Changes in gait speed[2]


Each of the four items are scored on an ordinal scale from 0-3 with higher numbers indicating better performance of the specified task. Additionally, each item has specific criteria that must be met to be granted a specific score number. The test has a total score out of 12.[2]

Unlike the full DGI, the 4-Item Dynamic Gait Index does not require access to stairs or the use of obstacles. Something to measure and mark specific distances is still needed though.[2]

[3]

Psychometric Properties[edit | edit source]

The 4-Items Dynamic Gait Index has been found be both valid and reliable for the assessment of walking function in patients with balance deficits, vestibular disorders, and those post stroke.[1] [2] Additionally, it possess psychometric properties at least on par with, if not better than, the full DGI.[2] It has been shown to have a minimum detectable change (MDC) of 2.3 points.[1]


References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Lin JH, Hsu MJ, Hsu HW, Wu HC, Hsieh CL. Psychometric Comparisons of 3 Functional Ambulation Measures for Patients With Stroke. Stroke. 2010 Jul 29; 41:9.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Marchetti GF, Whitney SL. Construction and validation of the 4-item dynamic gait index. Physical Therapy, 2006 Dec;86(12):1651-60.
  3. ↑ Geoffrey Coe. 4 Item DGI. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgk6fkU_eJc [last accessed 10/23/2021]
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