Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Published on: January 12, 2019
Physical Therapists' Use and Alteration of Standardized Assessments of Motor Function in Children
Deanne Fay1, Elizabeth Brock, Samantha Peneton
1A.T. Still University (Dr Fay), Mesa, Arizona; Mercy Gilbert Medical Center (Dr Brock), Gilbert, Arizona; Honor Health Thompson Peak Medical center (Dr Peneton), Scottsdale, Arizona; Mercy Hospital-Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (Dr Simon), Coon Rapids, Minnesota; Mountain Land Physical Therapy (Dr Splan), Murray, Utah; Emblem Healthcare (Dr Sullivan), Phoenix, Arizona; Kent Intermediate School District (Dr Weiler), Grand Rapids Michigan.
Purpose:
This study presents survey responses of pediatric physical therapists' use and alteration of standardized assessments of motor function in children aged 2 to 10 years.
Methods:
Electronic and paper surveys were distributed to practicing physical therapists through the APTA Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy electronic newsletter and 2 national conferences. Data were analyzed by response frequencies, qualitative responses, and χ(2) analyses for demographic characteristics.
Results:
A total of 497 pediatric physical therapists responded. Most (93%) reported using standardized assessments, with the majority (84%) reporting the normative scores. Almost all respondents (94%) also reported that they at least occasionally modify assessments.
Conclusion:
Standardized assessments are used by most therapists, but the high use of modifications during testing is concerning. Survey reports from therapists indicate a disconnect between standardized assessments and the needs of the child, leaving clinicians working to report required scores while maintaining validity of testing procedures.
More Related Videos
11:29Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
07:20Repeated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Action Observation Training in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Published on: August 9, 2024
