Dynamic Gait Index Calculator

Assess and calculate the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) score to evaluate gait and balance function in individuals with neurological conditions or mobility impairments.

1. Level walking Score 0-3: 0=Severe impairment, 1=Moderate, 2=Mild, 3=Normal

2. Changing gait speed Score 0-3: Ability to walk fast and slow on command

3. Head turns Score 0-3: Walking while turning head side to side

4. Narrow base walking Score 0-3: Walking with feet close together

5. Turning 360° Score 0-3: Ability to turn completely around

6. Narrow base walk with head turns Score 0-3: Walking narrow base while turning head

7. Stairs Score 0-3: Ascending and descending stairs

8. Obstacles Score 0-3: Walking over and around obstacles

Quick Examples:

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the score (0-3) for each of the 8 Dynamic Gait Index items based on clinical observation
Each item is scored: 0 = Severe impairment, 1 = Moderate impairment, 2 = Mild impairment, 3 = Normal
Review your inputs to ensure accuracy
Click Calculate to see the total DGI score and interpretation

Formula Used

Total DGI Score = Σ (Scores for Items 1-8)

Where:

Items 1-8 = Individual scores for each of the 8 Dynamic Gait Index test items
Each item score ranges from 0 to 3
Total possible score = 24 (higher scores indicate better gait function)

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A physical therapist assesses a 65-year-old patient with Parkinson's disease and records the following DGI scores:

Given:

Level walking = 2 (Mild impairment)
Changing gait speed = 2 (Mild impairment)
Head turns = 1 (Moderate impairment)
Narrow base walking = 1 (Moderate impairment)
Turning 360° = 2 (Mild impairment)
Narrow base walk with head turns = 1 (Moderate impairment)
Stairs = 2 (Mild impairment)
Obstacles = 2 (Mild impairment)

Calculation:

Total DGI Score = 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 1 + 2 + 2 = 13

Result: Score of 13 indicates moderate gait and balance impairment, suggesting the patient may benefit from gait training and balance exercises.

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

Assess fall risk in elderly patients
Monitor progress in rehabilitation programs
Evaluate treatment effectiveness for neurological conditions
Guide physical therapy interventions

Key Benefits

Standardized assessment of gait and balance
Quick and easy clinical tool
Helps identify specific areas of impairment
Useful for tracking patient progress over time

Common Mistakes & Tips

Ensure each item is scored consistently using the 0-3 scale. Remember: 0 = Severe impairment (cannot perform task), 1 = Moderate (performs with difficulty/assistance), 2 = Mild (performs with some difficulty), 3 = Normal (performs task normally).

All 8 items must be scored for an accurate total. If a patient cannot perform a specific task, score it as 0 rather than leaving it blank. This provides a complete picture of their functional abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The DGI score ranges from 0-24. Scores 19-24 indicate normal gait, 14-18 indicate mild impairment, 9-13 indicate moderate impairment, and 0-8 indicate severe impairment. Higher scores represent better gait and balance function.

The DGI is commonly used by physical therapists, occupational therapists, and healthcare professionals to assess gait and balance in patients with neurological conditions (Parkinson's, stroke, MS), vestibular disorders, or those at risk for falls.

Unlike static balance tests, the DGI evaluates dynamic balance during walking tasks that challenge the patient's ability to adapt their gait pattern. It provides a more functional assessment of real-world walking abilities.

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This Dynamic Gait Index calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical assessment. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The DGI should be administered and interpreted by trained healthcare professionals.

References

Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 2007 - Motor Control: Translating Evidence into Practice
Shumway-Cook et al., 1997 - The Dynamic Gait Index - A test for balance in the elderly
Williams et al., 2005 - Revised norms for the Dynamic Gait Index

Accuracy Notice

This calculator provides an estimate based on user-input scores. Actual clinical assessment may vary based on patient condition, tester expertise, and environmental factors. Always verify calculations and interpretations with professional clinical judgment.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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health fitness-exercise-performance dynamic gait index medical body

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