Commentary on "Six-Minute Walk Test in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy and Children Developing Typically".

Abstract

“How can I apply this information?” The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) may be useful to assess and quantify walking skills in children with spastic cerebral palsy functioning at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I through III. This study described a modified 6MWT protocol that may be necessary or helpful in a clinical setting. The mean distances for each GMFCS level and for children with typical development, as well as the differences between these groups, may assist therapists with comparing outcomes and setting appropriate goals for this population. “What should I be mindful of when applying this information?” Age and height correlated with 6MWT results, but the relationship strengths were low and inconsistent between groups. Therefore, further studies are needed to substantiate the variables that predict walking outcomes. The modified 6MWT protocol may have contributed to the results of this study differing from previous research. Therapists need to determine the most appropriate 6MWT course design and protocol for their setting and patients, while identifying how modifications may affect outcomes. In addition to the potential biases mentioned in the study, therapists may want to consider the time of day, joint range of motion, and frequency/intensity of therapy services when clinically administering and interpreting the 6MWT. Heather Hanson, PT, DPT, PCS Janet Rosenberg, PT Step by Step Developmental Services Rochester, New York