Article

OBJECTIVE: To describe distributions of contracture and spinal malalignment in
adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and determine associations with age, gender
and function. METHODS: Data were collected using the Spinal Alignment and Range
of Motion Measure (SAROMM), the Gross Motor Function Classification System
(GMFCS) and the Activity Scale for Kids (ASK).
RESULTS: Two hundred and
twenty-five adolescents (122 males; mean age 14 years 8 months; SD 1 year 8
months) participated. SAROMM scores by GMFCS levels and item scores in various
body regions are presented. Correlations between indices of function and SAROMM
total score were >0.70 (p<0.001). Males in GMFCS levels I/V obtained higher total
SAROMM scores than females. Age was significantly associated with SAROMM scores
for GMFCS levels IV/V participants. CONCLUSIONS: These data provide benchmarks
for evaluating impairments in adolescents with CP and support the role of
function in contracture development and possibly prevention. Gender and age were
factors that modified outcomes.

Langue : ANGLAIS