Musculoskeletal system problems and quality of life of mothers of children with cerebral palsy with different levels of disability.

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate musculoskeletal system problems and quality of life of mothers of children with cerebral palsy with different levels of disability.

Methods: 100 children (37 girls and 63 boys) with cerebral palsy (CP) and their mothers were included in this study. Functional levels of children with CP were assessed by using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and the Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM). Quality of life of mothers regarding health was assessed by using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Musculoskeletal system problems of mothers were assessed by using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ).

Results: No statistical significance was found when GMFCS levels of children with CP and the NHP, DASH-T, RMDQ, NDI and the BAE values of mothers were compared in an inter-group way (p> 0.05). When the NHP parameters and the existence of lower and arm pains of mothers were compared with their BAI, NDI, RMDQ and DASH-T scores, a statistically significant relationship was found among them (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: As functional levels of children with CP get worse, upper extremity, lower back and neck problems and anxiety levels of mothers increase and this situation negatively affects mothers' quality of life.