Association between spasticity and the level of motor function with quality of life in community dwelling Iranian young adults with spastic cerebral palsy

Abstract

Background: Consequences of cerebral palsy in adulthood can affect physical, psychological capabilities and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life with spasticity and level of motor function in Iranian young adults with spastic cerebral palsy who were community dweller.

Methods: In an analytical cross sectional study, 77 participants with spastic cerebral palsy (44 women, 33 men) with age range of 20 to 40 years; (mean age 26.19±5 yr) took part in this study. They were enrolled from three Raad Rehabilitation Goodwill complexes in Tehran and Karaj cities. All subjects were recruited through convenient sampling. Severity of Spasticity for knee flexors was measured with Modified Tardieu Scale. In addition, the level of motor function, and quality of life were assessed respectively through Gross Motor Function Classification System and World Health Organization Quality of life questionnaire (WHOQOL- BREF). To analyze data, Pearson and spearman correlation coefficient was used.

Results: No correlation found between quality of life with knee flexor muscles spasticity and level of motor function (p> 0.05).

Conclusion: Quality of life as a multi dimensional concept has been impacted by many factors such as physical status, environmental issues and culture. Possibly, severity of spasticity and level of function have a less pronounced effect on quality of life in community dwelling adults with cerebral palsy.

Keywords: Adult; Cerebral palsy; Quality of life; Spasticity.