Developmental Trajectories and Reference Percentiles for the 6-Minute Walk Test for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to document longitudinal developmental trajectories in 6-minute walk test (6MWT) distances and to develop age-specific reference percentiles for children across different Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels. Methods: A total of 456 children with cerebral palsy ages 3 to 12 years of, GMFCS levels I to III participated. Children's motor function was classified on the GMFCS, and children completed the 6MWT 2 to 5 times in 2 years. Results: Longitudinal developmental trajectories support that 6MWT distances increase with age followed by a tapering, as children approach their functional limit relative to their GMFCS level. Reference percentile graphs were created to monitor change over time. Conclusions: The 6MWT longitudinal developmental trajectories, reference percentiles, and interpretation of percentile change should assist collaborative and proactive intervention planning relative to functional walking capacity for children with cerebral palsy.

Developmental Trajectories and Reference Percentiles for the 6-Minute Walk Test for Children With Cerebral Palsy Journal Articles