Association between gross motor function (GMFCS) and manual ability (MACS) in children with cerebral palsy. A population-based study of 359 children
2007

Link Between Motor Function and Manual Ability in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Sample size: 359 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Katharina Delhusen Carnahan, Marianne Arner, Gunnar Hägglund

Primary Institution: Department of Orthopaedics, Lund University Hospital

Hypothesis

The study aims to describe the association between gross motor function and manual ability in children with cerebral palsy.

Conclusion

Gross motor function and manual ability often differ in children with cerebral palsy, and these differences vary across different subgroups.

Supporting Evidence

  • GMFCS levels were available in all 365 children, while MACS levels were available in 359 children.
  • There was a poor overall correlation between gross motor function and manual ability.
  • Children with spastic hemiplegia generally had a lower level of manual ability than gross motor function.
  • The reverse association was found in children with spastic diplegia.
  • Children with dyskinetic CP had large limitations in both gross motor function and manual ability.

Takeaway

This study looked at how well kids with cerebral palsy can move and use their hands, finding that these skills don't always match up.

Methodology

The study included 365 children with cerebral palsy, evaluating their gross motor function using GMFCS and manual ability using MACS.

Limitations

The study excluded children who had died or moved out of the area, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Participant Demographics

The study included 365 children with cerebral palsy, of which 209 were boys (58%).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p < 0.001

Confidence Interval

0.27–0.41

Statistical Significance

p < 0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2474-8-50

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication