Physical function of children with cerebral palsy
varies, even within Gross Motor Function
Classification System (GMFCS) level.1 This variation
in physical function is seen in the ranges of
scores obtained on outcome measures frequently
used to assess functional status of individuals with
cerebral palsy. Previous work found that scores on
outcome measures in children with cerebral palsy
illustrated variability within GMFCS levels and a
degree of overlap between GMFCS levels.1 The predictor
variables that contribute to the variability are
not well understood but previous work has shown
that strength,2,3 body composition,4 gait impairment5
and type of cerebral palsy (hemiplegia or diplegia)6
are related to physical function in this population