Cross-cultural adaptation and initial evaluation of measurement properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Lower Extremity Motor Function Test (LE-MFT)

Abstract

Lower extremity motor function assessments are essential to evaluate mobility and independence in stroke survivors. However, widely-used instruments do not account for the use of assistive devices, which may limit their sensitivity in detecting functional changes over time.

To translate and cross-culturally adapt the Lower Extremity Motor Function Test (LE-MFT) into Brazilian Portuguese and to evaluate its initial measurement properties.

The present study reports the translation, cross-cultural adaptation, evaluation of internal consistency, interrater reliability, construct validity, and floor/ceiling effects of the LE-MFT Brazil. The LE-MFT was translated and culturally adapted following international guidelines. Fifty stroke survivors were evaluated by two independent raters to examine the interrater reliability. Construct validity was assessed through correlations with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT). Floor and ceiling effects were also analyzed.

All LE-MFT scales showed excellent interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.86–0.96) and internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha [α] = 0.92–0.96). Strong correlations were found between the LE-MFT and TUG (r ≥ 0.78; p < 0.001), and between the LE-MFT and 10MWT (r ≥ 0.71; p < 0.001), supporting construct validity. No floor nor ceiling effects were observed, except on the Equipment scale, which showed a ceiling effect in 38% of the participants.

The Brazilian version of the LE-MFT is a valid and reliable instrument to assess lower-limb motor function in individuals with chronic stroke. Its consideration of assistive-device use provides added clinical value for tracking functional independence.