Physical Medicine

Functional independence assessment is central to rehabilitation medicine. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) quantifies disability across 18 items spanning self-care, sphincter control, mobility, locomotion, communication, and social cognition, with a total score ranging from 18 (complete dependence) to 126 (complete independence). FIM change scores are the most widely used outcome measure in inpatient rehabilitation.

Spinal cord injury classification follows the International Standards for Neurological Classification of SCI (ISNCSCI), using the ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS) to grade injury completeness from A (complete) to E (normal). The SCIM III (Spinal Cord Independence Measure) provides a more SCI-specific functional assessment than the generic FIM.

Stroke rehabilitation outcomes are tracked using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (motor recovery), Berg Balance Scale (fall risk), and the modified Rankin Scale (global disability). These tools guide therapy intensity, predict discharge disposition, and measure treatment efficacy in stroke rehabilitation trials.