Gross Motor Function Classification System | The University Of Western Ontario

University:
The University Of Western Ontario
Course:
Biology 2290F | Scientific Method in Biology
Academic year:

2022
Views:

239

Pages:

3
Author:

Kyuwon J.

Gross Motor Function Classification System Cerebral Palsy ● Standard tool on classifying motor function in children on cerebral palsy ○ focused on self initiated movement ■ sitting ■ transfer ■ mobility ● based on usual performance ○ not on best capacity ○ used to guide prognosis ○ intervention + therapy planning levels ● GMFCS level 1 ○ most independent ■ walking with no limitations ■ climbing stairs without use of railing ■ limitation on speed and balance coordinations ○ difficulty in advanced motor skills ■ running jumping ● GMFCS level 2 ○ walking with limitations ○ climbing stairs with railing ○ difficulties on incline and crowds ○ need of assisted devices before age of 4 ■ after this stage may not need for indoor activity ● GMFCS level 3 ○ Able to walk only with hand held devices ■ walker, crutches, canes ○ Use wheeled mobility device for longer moves ○ able to climb stairs with assistances ○ transfers with support not needed yet ● GMFCS level 4 ○ self mobility limitations ■ wheeled mobility ○ could use powered mobility, or assistance with pushed wheelchairs ○ able to walk short distance on home with some physical assistance ○ able to walk short distance but need physical assistance ● GMFCS 5 ○ most severe ○ need transported wheelchairs ○ limitation on maintaining head/trunk posture ○ No independent mobility ○ assistance is needed for transfer and mobility Level Walk Aid Stairs Transfers I Normal walk None No rail Independent II Walk slow / uneven issues Rail early aid With rail Independent III Walk short dist. Walker / crutch / cane With rail + help Self / some help IV Limited walk Wheelchair (manual / power) Needs assist With help V No walk Wheelchair (pushed / power) Not possible Full assist Clinical applications ● Prognosis ○ levels same after age 5 ○ will help clinicians on predicting the future mobility needs ● Rehabilitations ○ tailors, physio-therapy , occupational therapy ● Educations + care ○ Assist in school through individualized lesson plans (IEPs) ○ Decisions on accessibility needed ■ Ramps, classroom mobility, bathroom supports) ■ Providing framework on family support and modifications ● Research ○ Universal language upon clinical trials ○ Evidence based rehabilitation