Tool Use for Early Detection of Cerebral Palsy: A Survey of Spanish Pediatric Physical Therapists

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the use of diagnostic assessment tools in pediatric physical therapy practice in Spain. Best practice recommendations indicate the timely use of key assessment tools to reduce the age of diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Pediatric physical therapists currently working in Spain in early intervention were recruited through targeted physical therapy entities. They were invited to complete the purpose-developed electronic survey, consisting of 45 multiple-choice questions, with 5 thematic blocks.

Results: Results from 140 anonymous respondents were analyzed. The average reported age when CP was suspected was 12.6 months. Most used the child's clinical history (88.1%), the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (41.3%), and Vojta Assessment Procedure (32.1%) to assess and detect CP. General Movements Assessment (25.7%) and Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (28.4%) were used infrequently.

Conclusions: Currently, pediatric physical therapists in Spain rely on clinical history and outdated tools to identify children with CP.

Digital Abstract available at: https://links.lww.com/PPT/A361 (English).

Digital Abstract available at: https://links.lww.com/PPT/A362 (Spanish).