Which assessment is commonly used to evaluate outcomes in patients post-stroke?

The Fugl-Meyer Assessment is a standardized test specifically designed to evaluate motor function, balance, sensation, and joint function in individuals who have suffered a stroke. It is particularly focused on assessing the recovery of motor skills and is widely recognized for its reliability and validity in post-stroke rehabilitation. By providing a comprehensive overview of physical impairments related to the stroke, it helps clinicians to determine the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and the overall progress of patients.

In contrast, the Mini-Mental State Examination is primarily used to assess cognitive function rather than motor abilities; it evaluates areas like memory, attention, and language, making it less suitable for assessing post-stroke outcomes specifically related to physical rehabilitation. The Beck Depression Inventory measures the severity of depression and does not focus on motor or functional recovery after a stroke. The Measure of Occupational Functioning, while relevant to assessing everyday functioning, does not necessarily provide the detailed physical assessment that is crucial for understanding motor recovery in post-stroke patients. Thus, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment stands out as the most appropriate tool for evaluating outcomes in this context.