Which mobility task is expected at sacral S1-S2?

• A. Community ambulation
• B. Stair climbing
• C. Wheelchair propulsion
• D. Bed mobility

Answer: (A)

At sacral S1-S2, the lowest spinal nerves that control the feet are still functioning, especially the ankle plantarflexors. That means the person has the push-off power needed to step and walk on level ground, which makes community ambulation the typical mobility outcome at this level. With this level of function, individuals can usually walk in the community, sometimes with assistive devices or orthoses, while other tasks like stair climbing or wheelchair propulsion require higher function or more upper-body strength. Bed mobility is possible as well, but the hallmark capability at this level is walking in the community.