Correlation between Visual Gait Analysis and Functional Aspects in Cerebral Palsy

OBJECTIVE To verify the correlation between visual gait analysis (VGA) by the Edinburgh visual gait score (EVGS) and functional aspects using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS Retrospective cross sectional study of 35 patients with CP. The mean age 12.61 years old, 94.3% were spastic; 34.4% hemiplegic, 54.3% diplegic, 11.4% triplegic; 45.7% were level II GMFCS, 42.9% level I, 5.7% level III and 5.7% level IV. VGA was analyzed by the Edinburgh visual gait score (EVGS), functional mobility was assessed by TUG and functionality through GMFCS. The Spearman correlation was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS The mean EVGS score was 18.97. The mean TUG was 13.71sec. EVGS showed moderate correlation with TUG (r=0.46, p=0.03) and GMFCS (r=0.45, p=0.00). CONCLUSION Worse VGA scores correlate to worse functionality and mobility performance. Due to the observed correlation, it is possible to assert that VGA is a useful tool on evaluation of CP patients. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.