Comparison of the Reliability and Convergent Validity of Three Dual-Task Timed Up and Go Protocols in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Dual-tasking is performing two different tasks at the same time. For example, singing while cooking. Everyday activities often involve dual-task. In many researches evaluating dual-task performance in individuals with MS, it has been reported that individuals with severe disability, in particular, exhibit greater effort than healthy individuals. This increase in motor and cognitive dual-task performance in individuals with MS is associated with an increased risk of falls. There is a need for standardized, valid, and reliable assessment tools to evaluate dual-task performance in MS. The purpose of this study is to examine and compare the validity and reliability of the dual-task Timed Up and Go test (DTUG) administered using three different protocols. To this end, this study will evaluate the validity and reliability of the DTUGs-which consist of three subtasks: counting backward in threes, verbal fluency, and ball-carrying on a tray-and compare their clinical applicability relative to one another. For validity analyses, convergent validity will be assessed. For reliability analyses, intra- and inter-rater reliability will be assessed, and SEM and MDC values will be calculated. Additionally, Bland-Altman plots will be plotted for intra- and inter-rater agreement analyses.