Psychometric properties of the Obstacles and Curb tests and their discriminative ability across functional levels in ambulatory children with spastic cerebral palsy

This study examines the Obstacles and Curb tests, which are walking assessments modified for children with cerebral palsy (CP). The study checks if these tests accurately and reliably measure walking ability in children with CP compared to typically developing children. The tests involve walking over obstacles and stepping onto a curb. Researchers analyzed how well these tests correlated with other established measures of walking and balance, and whether they could distinguish between different levels of motor function in children with CP. The study found the Obstacles and Curb tests to be valid, reliable, and sensitive for assessing walking in children with CP. The tests can differentiate between children with CP and typically developing children, as well as among different levels of CP severity.

• 1
  The Obstacles and Curb tests showed strong to very strong correlations with established measures like the 10-Meter Walk Test (10-MWT), Modified Time Up and Go test (mTUG), and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS).
• 2
  The tests demonstrated excellent within-session reliability, indicating consistent results when administered repeatedly in a short period.
• 3
  The Obstacles and Curb tests were able to significantly differentiate between children with CP and typically developing children, with high sensitivity and specificity.