Which walking capacity tests to use in multiple sclerosis? A multicentre study providing the basis for a core set

Background: Many different walking capacity test formats are being used. It is unclear whether walking speed, obtained from short tests, and walking distance, obtained from long tests, provide different clinical information.Objectives: To determine the differential effect of various short and long walk test formats on gait velocity, and the actual relationship between walking speed and walking distance in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with diverse ambulation status.Methods: A cross-sectional multicentre study design was applied. Ambulatory MS patients (Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0–6.5; n = 189) were tested at 11 sites. Short tests consisted of the Timed 25-Foot Walk (static start, fastest speed) and 10-Metre Walk Test (dynamic start, usual and fastest speed). Long tests consisted of the 2- and 6-Minute Walk Tests (fastest speed). Subjects were divided into mild (EDSS 0–4; n = 99) or moderate (EDSS 4.5–6.5; n = 79) disability subgroups.Results: In both subgroups, the start protocol, instruc...