Utilizing Lower Limb Phase Angle as a Functional Prognostic Indicator for Patients in Convalescent Rehabilitation Wards

Abstract

Objectives : This study aimed to investigate whether lower limb phase angle (LL-PA) at admission predicts functional outcomes in patients undergoing rehabilitation.

Methods : In this retrospective study, we measured the LL-PA of 256 patients (mean age 74.09±12.86 years) admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward upon arrival. The primary outcomes at discharge were motor Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores and walking independence. The secondary outcomes included a 10-m walking speed and Timed Up-and-Go test result.

Results : The LL-PA independently predicted discharge motor FIM scores (β=0.323, P <0.001) and walking independence (odds ratio=3.302, 95% confidence interval: 1.714–6.360). The sex-specific cut-off value for predicting walking independence was 3.050° for men (sensitivity, 0.804; specificity, 0.853) and 2.650° for women (sensitivity, 0.769; specificity, 0.812).

Conclusions : LL-PA at admission is a significant predictor of functional outcomes in patients undergoing rehabilitation, with potential utility in early prognostic assessments.