Abstract
The relationship between patterns of strength and mobility was studied in 291 children with myelomeningocele, graded as community ambulators, partial (household) ambulators and non-ambulators. Iliopsoas strength was found to be the best predictor of ambulation, with the quadriceps, anterior tibialis and glutei also contributing significantly. Grade 0 to 3 iliospoas strength was always associated with partial or complete reliance on a wheelchair. No patients with grade 4 to 5 iliopsoas and quadriceps function relied completely on wheelchairs and the majority were community ambulators. Grade 4 to 5 gluteal and anterior tibialis function was associated with community ambulation, without aids or braces. Deterioration in mobility was most common in those with strong iliopsoas/quadriceps and grade 0 to 3 gluteus medius, and was not age-related.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 482-490 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| Journal | Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology |
| Volume | 33 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| State | Published - 1991 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Neurology
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Neuroscience(all)