Objectification of motor disorders in children with cerebral palsy: What we know so far

Abstract

This study provides an overview of the recent literature regarding the assessment methods of the functional state of the locomotor system in children with cerebral palsy. The objective methods of quantitative assessment of motor disorders in cerebral palsy are presented, including the measurement of stability, biomechanical assessment of walking, and video analysis of movements. The influence of the cognitive load on the ability to maintain the vertical posture in children with cerebral palsy as well as the changes in the stability of the vertical posture with closed eyes were observed. Changes in the walking parameters with an increase in the speed were also recorded in children with cerebral palsy. Methods that assess hand motion in children with cerebral palsy include tests involving the moving of objects, tests for speed assessment in joint movements, and video analysis of motions. The methods and tests for such an evaluation require to be valid and reliable, allowing an objective assessment of the severity of motor disorders in cerebral palsy.