1- Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran. , gharib_masoud@yahooo.com
2- Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran.
3- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. & Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
4- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. & Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Abstract: (4 Views)
Objective: Cerebral palsy (CP), a neuromotor condition, stands as the most common physical disability affecting children, demonstrates primary motor impairment with secondary behavioral manifestations. These concurrent pathologies synergistically diminish health-related quality of life (QoL). This study quantitatively examines the tripartite association between gait parameters, behavioral pathology, and QoL metrics in pediatric CP.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional investigation focused on, 60 children with CP aged 6-12 years, classified at levels I, II, III of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and capable of walking, were evaluated. Assessment tools included the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) CP Module, Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and quantitative gait analysis.
Results: Findings revealed significant variability in gait parameters, with children at higher GMFCS levels demonstrating lower walking speed, step count, and stride length (p < 0.05). QoL showed a marked decrease in children experiencing greater severity of motor dysfunction, particularly in physical functioning domains (p < 0.05). Behaviorally, 35% of children exhibited clinically significant internalizing problems, while 28% displayed externalizing problems. Gait speed assessments demonstrated a moderate positive correlation had a correlation coefficient of 0.42 with QoL, significant at the 0.01 level and a weak negative association with behavioral issues (r = -0.313, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that walking speed (β = 0.382, p < 0.01) and internalizing problems (β = -0.454, p < 0.01) were significant independent predictors of quality of life, explaining a 52% share of variance and a p-value below 0.001.
Conclusion: This research emphasizes the complex interplay among motor abilities, behavioral health, and quality of life in children affected by cerebral palsy. The findings highlight the importance of comprehensive intervention approaches that target both physical and psychological factors to enhance functional movement, emotional health, and the overall well-being of these children.
Type of Study:
Original |
Subject:
Occupational Therapy Received: 26/04/2025 | Accepted: 6/08/2025 | Published: 23/09/2025