Modified Rivermead Mobility Index: a reliable measure in people within 14 days post-stroke

Abstract

Purpose: The reliability of the Modified Rivermead Mobility Index (MRMI) has not previously been investigated in the very early post-stroke phase. The aim of the study was to evaluate inter-rater and intra-rater reliability and internal consistency in patients, 1-14 d post-stroke.

Method: A cohort study with repeated measures within 24 h, on 37 patients, 1-14 d post-stroke was conducted. Inter-rater (two raters) and intra-rater (one rater) reliability was analyzed using weighted kappa (κ) statistics and internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha and intra-class correlation (ICC), 3.k.

Results: Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability was excellent (ICC coefficient 0.97 and 0.99) for MRMI summary score. Intra-rater exact agreement for separate items was between 77% and 97%; κ between 0.81 and 0.96. Inter-rater exact agreement for separate items was between 68% and 92%; κ 0.59-0.87. The internal consistency was high (α 0.96; ICC 3.k 0.99).

Conclusion: The MRMI is a reliable measure of physical mobility in the early post-stroke phase.

Keywords: Assessment; physiotherapy; reliability; stroke.