Functional abilities of children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Introduction. Cerebral palsy is one of the leading causes of neurological impairment in childhood. The dominant clinical sign is the impairment of gross motor functions; however, associated conditions may limit the child with cerebral palsy in daily activities as well. The aim of this study was to determine the functional status of children with cerebral palsy, its relationship with the types of cerebral palsy, and concomitant conditions. Material and Methods. The sample included 206 children with cerebral palsy. The data were obtained from medical records with clinical characteristics of cerebral palsy, and associated conditions. The clinical types of cerebral palsy were determined using the Surveillance of Cerebral Palsy in Europe registry and topographical categories. Gross motor function abilities were evaluated using the Gross Motor Function Classification System and manual abilities by the Manual Ability System Classification. Results. According to the Gross Motor Function Classification System, about two thirds of children with cerebral palsy (64.0%) had levels I, II or III of gross motor function impairment. A statistically significant difference was noted with respect to the distribution of various clinical types of cerebral palsy in relation to functional classification based on Gross Motor Function Classification System (p < 0.001), as well as in the functional classification in terms of intellectual impairment (p <0.001); children with severe forms of intellectual impairment were classified at a higher level of functional limitation. Epilepsy was more prevalent in children with higher level of functional limitation (p = 0.009). Conclusion. Two thirds of children with cerebral palsy could walk independently or with walking aids. Children with quadriplegia and dyskinetic type of cerebral palsy had the most limited functional abilities. Associated conditions were more prevalent in children with higher functional limitations.