Examination of the effects of age, sex, and motor ability level on balance capabilities in children with cerebral palsy GMFCS levels I, II, III and typical development using the Pediatric Balance Scale

Abstract

Purpose: Explore effects of age, sex, and motor ability level on balance capabilities in preschoolers with and without Cerebral Palsy (CP).

Method: PBS was administered to 477 children 24 through 59 months: 258 with typical development (TD) and 219 with CP GMFCS levels I, II and III.

Results: 3-way ANOVA indicated PBS scores were significantly affected by age (F4,437=26.95, p<0.0001, η2p=0.198), motor ability level (F3,437=482.15, p<0.0001, η²p=0.768) and sex (F1,437=4.64, p<0.03, η²p=0.01) with significant interaction between motor ability level and age (F 12,437=5.25, p<0.001, η²p=0.126). Children's performance on individual items was analyzed by age, sex and motor ability level.

Conclusion: Children with TD outperformed children with CP GMFCS level I 36-59 months and children with CP GMFCS levels II and III 24-59 months. Expected performance values for children with TD and children with CP, ages 24-59 months, at GMFCS levels I, II and III are provided.