How it's calculated
A single 0–6 grade is selected based on the patient's overall functional status and level of independence, not summed from separate components.
Grade definitions
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 0 | No symptoms at all |
| 1 | No significant disability despite symptoms; able to carry out all usual duties and activities |
| 2 | Slight disability; unable to carry out all previous activities but able to look after own affairs without assistance |
| 3 | Moderate disability; requiring some help but able to walk without assistance |
| 4 | Moderately severe disability; unable to walk without assistance and unable to attend to own bodily needs without assistance |
| 5 | Severe disability; bedridden, incontinent, requiring constant nursing care and attention |
| 6 | Dead |
Clinical use
- The most widely used outcome measure in stroke clinical trials, typically assessed at 90 days post-stroke.
- mRS 0-2 is generally considered a "good" functional outcome; 3-5 reflects increasing disability requiring more support.
- Used to guide discharge planning and rehabilitation intensity, and to track functional recovery over time with serial assessment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Modified Rankin Scale used for?
It grades the degree of disability or dependence in daily activities after stroke (or other neurological conditions), on a 0-6 scale, and is the standard outcome measure in stroke trials.
What mRS score counts as a "good outcome"?
mRS 0-2 (no symptoms to slight disability, independent in daily activities) is generally considered a good functional outcome in stroke trial reporting, though the exact cutoff used can vary by study.
When is mRS typically assessed after a stroke?
Most commonly at 90 days post-stroke in clinical trials, though it can be assessed at any point to track functional status and guide rehabilitation planning.
References
- van Swieten JC, et al. Interobserver agreement for the assessment of handicap in stroke patients. Stroke. 1988;19:604-607.
- Rankin J. Cerebral vascular accidents in patients over the age of 60. Scott Med J. 1957;2:200-215.