Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the functional level of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and their parents' musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and quality of life. Material and Methods: Parents' demographic information was recorded. Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) to classify the functional status of children with CP, Functional Independence Measurement for Children (WeeFIM) to assess functionality, Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) to assess functional balance in activities of daily living, Timed Up & Go test to assess functional walking time Test (TUG) was used. In parents, the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Pain System Questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal pain, the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) was used to assess fatigue, and the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) was used to assess quality of life. Results: The mean age of the children participating in the study was 11.48±4.61 years. A negative significant correlation was found between the Functional Independence Measurement for Children and the number of painful areas of the parents (p= 0.039, r= -0.294). There was no significant relationship between the parents number of painful areas, Nottingham Health Profile score and Fatigue Severity Scale score with the children’s Gross Motor Function Classification System score, Timed Up and Go Test duration, Pediatric Balance Score and the age. Discussion: As the functional independence level of the child with CP decreases, it can be said that there is an increase in the number of painful areas in his/her parents. According to the results of this study, it may be beneficial to carry out studies to improve the physical and mental well-being of children with CP, in the rehabilitation of their parents, as well as in treatment planning.

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