ambulation
The ability to walk independently or with assistive devices, used as a key functional outcome measure in rehabilitation.
Full Definition
Ambulation refers to a patient's capacity to walk, either independently or with the aid of orthoses, walking aids, or personal assistance. In rehabilitation documentation, editors must distinguish between levels of ambulation (household, community, unlimited) and ensure that qualifying terms such as 'assisted,' 'supervised,' or 'independent' are applied consistently. It is a core metric in progress notes, functional assessments, and discharge summaries. The term is often paired with qualifiers describing distance, surface type, and required assistance level.
Usage
Usage note: Do not conflate with 'mobility,' which is broader and includes transfers, wheelchair use, and bed mobility.
In Context
- "The patient achieved community ambulation with a single-point cane by week six of the inpatient program." — Inpatient rehabilitation progress note
- "Ambulation goals were revised following the patient's fall during the third therapy session." — Multidisciplinary team meeting minutes