Understanding Neurological Rating Scales
Measuring the progression of MS
When used regularly, neurological rating scales allow medical professionals to chart how quickly a chronic disease, such as MS, is progressing - if indeed it is progressing at all. The scales are particularly valuable in clinical trials because they allow a reliable comparison of disease progression in patients taking the study drug and those taking another standard treatment or placebo. Most neurological rating scales measure disease progression in terms of impairment, disability or handicap.
Impairment
Loss or abnormality of psychological, physiological or anatomical structure or function
Disability
Any restriction or lack of ability resulting from an impairment of the ability to perform an activity in the manner, or within the range, considered to be typical for human beings
Handicap
A disadvantage for an individual; resulting from an impairment or disability that limits or prevents the fulfilment of an individual’s typical role
