Using the Gross Motor Function Classification System- Expanded & Revised Version (GMFCS-E&R)

Michaela is a five-year-old girl who loves ballet.  She has a diagnosis of diplegic cerebral palsy,  GMFCS level III.  What does this mean?

GMFCS Level III (Between 4th & 6th Birthday)

Children walk using a hand-held mobility device in most indoor settings. They may climb stairs holding onto a railing with supervision or assistance. Children use wheeled mobility when traveling long distances and may self-propel for shorter distances.

From the GMFCS E&R instruction guide

 

GMFCS-E&R Quick facts:

  • Five-level classification system
  • Based on the child’s self-initiated, regular movement
  • For use with children with cerebral palsy only
  • Used to classify children with CP from 1-18 years
  • Not for use to classify infants under 1 year of age
  • Not for use as an outcome measure

The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-V are gross motor function categories for children with cerebral palsy.    This post describes what GMFCS levels I through V mean, how they are used, and some of the controversy around them. Continue reading “Using the Gross Motor Function Classification System- Expanded & Revised Version (GMFCS-E&R)”