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Published on: November 7, 2014
Pediatric Walking Speed Normal Reference Values in a Local Population
Janette M Cadieux1, Sarah L Pyhala, Jeffrey V Johnson
1Cadieux Physical Therapy (Dr Cadieux), Cooper Landing, Alaska; Riley Physical Therapy, LLC (Dr Pyhala), Soldotna, Alaska; Kenai Peninsula College Kachemak Bay Campus (Dr Johnson), Homer, Alaska.
Purpose:
This study's aim was to develop a local walking speed norm using the 10-m walk test (10MWT) for 5- to 17-year-old children and youth who are developing typically.
Methods:
Healthy child and adolescent participants were recruited from schools in one rural Alaska school district. The 10MWT was performed using a 2 repetitions per speed protocol. Outcome measures were average time for the normal and fast-speed trials, separated by age and gender.
Results:
Average walking speed was established in this group of children and youth who are developing typically by age and gender.
Conclusions:
Local walking speed norms for 5- to 17-year-olds can be accurately obtained by examining students in a rural school district.
