Neurology A

EDSS — Expanded Disability Status Scale (MS)

Expanded Disability Status Scale for quantifying disability in multiple sclerosis. Ranges from 0 (normal) to 10 (death due to MS).

EDSS Score*

Score interpretation

No/Minimal Disability 0–1.5

EDSS 0–1.5: no disability; minimal signs at most.

→ Monitor for relapse; disease-modifying therapy as appropriate.

Mild Disability 2–3.5

EDSS 2.0–3.5: mild to moderate disability in functional systems; fully ambulatory.

→ Review disease-modifying therapy; physiotherapy and occupational therapy as needed.

Moderate Disability 4–5.5

EDSS 4.0–5.5: ambulatory without aid, but walking distance restricted.

→ MS team review of disease-modifying therapy; multidisciplinary input; fatigue management.

Walking Aid Required 6–7.5

EDSS 6.0–7.5: walking aid needed, or essentially restricted to a wheelchair.

→ Symptom management (spasticity, pain, bladder); mobility aids; specialist MS nursing.

Severe Disability / Bedridden 8–10

EDSS 8.0–10: restricted to bed or chair, or helpless.

→ Supportive and palliative care focus; pressure area care; swallowing, bladder and bowel care.

Interpretation bands for the EDSS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

Kurtzke JF. Rating neurologic impairment in multiple sclerosis: an expanded disability status scale (EDSS). Neurology. 1983;33(11):1444-1452.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.