Association Between Extremity Muscle Strength and Functional Outcomes in Children With Cerebral Palsy

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether upper and lower extremity muscle strength is a factor in activity, participation and quality of life parameters in school-age children with CP and to reveal the difference in upper and lower extremity muscle strength compared to typically developing peers.

Inclusion Criteria: * Having been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, * Being classified as Level I-II-III on the Gross Motor Classification System, * Being classified as Level I-II on the Communication Function Classification System (IFSS) for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy, * Having turned 6 years old by the start of the study and not having turned 12 years old by the end of the study. Inclusion criteria for typically developing children: * Not having been diagnosed with any neurological disorder, * Having turned 6 years old by the start of the study and not having turned 12 years old by the end of the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Have a Gross Motor Classification System Level IV-V, * Have a Communication Function Classification System (IFSS) Level III, IV, and V for individuals with cerebral palsy, * Having undergone Botulinum Toxin-A (BTX-A) injection in the last 6 months, * Having undergone orthopaedic surgery in the last 6 months, * Using medication that may affect muscle strength, * Having cardiovascular problems.