Measuring changes in functional mobility in children with mild cerebral palsy

Objective: To support the use of TUG and TUDS to detect changes in functional mobility in children with mild cerebral palsy.

Methods: Six children with spastic cerebral palsy and classified by GMFCS as level I or II were enrolled in the study. The gross motor function was measured by the GMFM and functional mobility by the TUG and TUDS. The participants were assessed before and after an 8-week follow-up.

Results: After this period, increased GMFM scores were found at dimensions D (standing) and E (walking, running and jumping). The time to complete TUG and TUDS was shorter after the follow-up period. Negative correlations were found between GMFM dimension E and the TUG and TUDS tests.

Conclusion: Changes in the gross motor skills measured by the GMFM may be accompanied by changes in the movement speed measured by TUG and TUDS. These tests may complement information provided by GMFM.