Functional Gait Assessment
A standardised 10-item clinical tool used to evaluate dynamic balance and gait ability across varied walking conditions, scored out of 30.
Full Definition
The Functional Gait Assessment (FGA) is a validated outcome measure developed as a modification of the Dynamic Gait Index, designed to reduce ceiling effects and more sensitively capture gait and balance deficits in neurological and vestibular rehabilitation populations. It assesses gait on level surfaces, with head turns, over obstacles, with narrow base of support, backwards, and up and down stairs, among other conditions. Each item is scored 0–3, yielding a maximum of 30 points. Editors should note the full name is always capitalised as a proper noun of a specific instrument; the abbreviation FGA is standard but should be defined at first use. The FGA is distinct from informal gait observation and from the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI).
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise all words as a proper noun of a named instrument. Abbreviate as FGA after first use. Distinguish from informal gait observation and from the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), which is a related but separate tool.
In Context
- "The Functional Gait Assessment score improved from 14/30 at admission to 24/30 at discharge, indicating reduced fall risk." — Vestibular rehabilitation outcome report
- "FGA was selected over the DGI due to its reduced ceiling effect in higher-functioning neurological patients." — Clinical research methods section