Validity of injury self-reports by novice runners: comparison with reports by sports medicine physicians.

This study examined the criterion validity of self-reported running-related injuries (RRI) by novice runners. Fifty-eight participants (41 females; age 46 ± 11 yrs) of the "Start-to-Run" program provided self-reports on their RRIs using an online questionnaire. Subsequently, they attended injury consultations with sports medicine physicians who provided physician-reports (blinded for the self-reports) as a reference standard. Self-reports and physician-reports included information on injury location (i.e., hip/groin, upper leg, knee, lower leg, and ankle/foot) and injury type (i.e., muscle-tendon unit, joint, ligament, or bone). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values were 100% for all five injury locations. For injury type, sensitivity was low (66% for muscle-tendon unit, 50% for ligament, and 40% for bone) and lowest for joint injuries (17%). In conclusion, the validity of self-reported RRIs by novice runners is good for injury locations but not for injury types. In particular for joint injuries, the validity of novice runners' self-reports is low. Abbreviations: RRI: Running Related Injury; SMC: Sports Medicine Centre; MTU: Muscle Tendon Unit; PPV: Positive Predictive Value.

How do adolescents with cerebral palsy participate? Learning from their personal experiences.

BACKGROUND: Participation in society can be difficult for adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). Information is often based on quantitative studies, and little is known about their personal participation experiences. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the participation experiences of adolescents (aged 12-17 years) with CP. METHODS: A qualitative participatory research method was used. Twenty-three semi-structured open interviews were conducted with 13 male and 10 female adolescents (mean age 15 years) with CP. An interview checklist was developed jointly with adolescents with CP. This checklist ensured that the adolescents reflected on various participation areas, that is school, sports, health care and work. The analysis was based on principles of grounded theory. FINDINGS: From the adolescents' experiences, 4 key categories were identified. One concerned participation, as such, expressed as "My participation experiences," including experiences, thoughts and feelings while participating in daily life. Three other categories concerned factors that influence participation experiences, expressed as "My disability," "Me as a person" and "My environment." These 4 categories together formed a model showing the interactions and dynamics of participation according to adolescents with CP. CONCLUSION: Adolescents with CP expressed their participation experiences, including various important influencing factors. This study conceptualized these experiences into a dynamic model. This experience-based participation model may provide new, personalized perspectives for practice, for instance in rehabilitation, but also for schools and sports (or sports clubs) attended by adolescents. Focusing on personal and environmental factors might be the key to successful participation.

Hamstring-and-Lower-Back Flexibility in Male Amateur Soccer Players.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the hamstring-and-lower-back flexibility (HLBF) of male adult amateur soccer players, using the sit-and-reach test (SRT), with a view to obtaining population-based reference values and to determining whether SRT scores are associated with player characteristics. DESIGN: Cross-sectional cohort study. SETTING: Teams from high-level Dutch amateur soccer competitions were recruited for participation. PARTICIPANTS: Dutch male high-level amateur field soccer players (n = 449) of age 18 to 40 years. Players with a hamstring injury at the moment of SRT-measurement or any other injury that prevented them from following the SRT protocol were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Sit-and-reach test scores were measured and then population-based reference values were calculated as follows: >2SD below mean (defining "very low" HLBF), 1SD-2SD below mean ("low" HLBF), 1SD below mean to 1SD above mean ("normal" HLBF), 1SD-2SD above mean ("high" HLBF), and >2SD above mean ("very high" HLBF). Whether SRT scores were correlated with player characteristics was determined using a Pearson correlation coefficient or Spearman rho. RESULTS: Sit-and-reach test scores ranged from 0 to 43.5 cm (mean 22.0 cm, SD 9.2). The cutoff points for population-based reference values were <3.5 cm for "very low", 3.5 to 13.0 cm for "low", 13.0 to 31.0 cm for "normal", 31.0 to 40.5 cm for "high", and >40.5 cm for "very high". Sit-and-reach test scores were significantly associated with players' height (ρ = -0.132, P = 0.005), body mass index (r = 0.114, P = 0.016), and history of anterior cruciate ligament surgery (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to describe the HLBF of amateur soccer players. The SRT reference values with cutoff points may facilitate evidence-based decision making regarding HLBF, and the SRT might be a useful tool to assess injury risk, performance, or for diagnostic purposes.

Longitudinal Association Between Gross Motor Capacity and Neuromusculoskeletal Function in Children and Youth With Cerebral Palsy.

OBJECTIVE: To examine associations over longitudinal measurements between neuromusculoskeletal function and gross motor capacity in children and youth with cerebral palsy (CP). DESIGN: A prospective cohort study. SETTING: Rehabilitation departments of university medical centers and rehabilitations centers. PARTICIPANTS: A sample (N=327) consisting of 148 children (aged 5-9y) and 179 youth (aged 11-20y) with CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System level I (n=180), level II (n=44), level III (n=36), level IV (n=34), and level V (n=33). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Gross motor capacity was assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure-66 over a period of 2 to 4 years in different age cohorts. Neuromusculoskeletal function included selective motor control (SMC), muscle strength, spasticity, and range of motion (ROM) of the lower extremities. RESULTS: Multilevel analyses showed that SMC was significantly associated with gross motor capacity in children and youth with CP, showing higher values and a more favorable course of gross motor capacity in those with better SMC. Strength was only associated with gross motor capacity in youth. Reduced ROM of hip (children) and knee extension (youth) and spasticity of the hip adductors (youth) were additionally-but more weakly-associated with lower values and a less favorable course of gross motor capacity. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that children and youth with more severely impaired SMC and youth with reduced muscle strength have a less favorable course of gross motor capacity, while spasticity and reduced ROM are less determinative.

Short-Term Absenteeism and Health Care Utilization Due to Lower Extremity Injuries Among Novice Runners: A Prospective Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe absenteeism and health care utilization (HCU) within 6 weeks after occurrence of running-related injuries (RRIs) among novice runners and to explore differences relating to injury and personal characteristics. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: Primary care. PARTICIPANTS: One thousand six hundred ninety-six novice runners (18-65 years) participating in a 6-week running program ("Start-to-Run"). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Injury characteristics were assessed by weekly training logs and personal characteristics by a baseline questionnaire. Data on absenteeism and HCU were collected using questionnaires at 2 and 6 weeks after the RRI occurred. RESULTS: A total of 185 novice runners (11%) reported an RRI during the 6-week program. Of these injured novice runners, 78% reported absence from sports, whereas only 4% reported absence from work. Fifty-one percent of the injured novice runners visited a health care professional, mostly physical therapists (PTs) rather than physicians. Absenteeism was more common among women than men and was also more common with acute RRIs than gradual-onset RRIs. As regards HCU, both the variety of professionals visited and the number of PT visits were higher among runners with muscle-tendon injuries in the ankle/foot region than among those with other RRIs. CONCLUSIONS: Among novice runners sustaining an RRI during a 6-week running program, over three quarters reported short-term absence from sports, whereas absence from work was very limited, and over half used professional health care. Both absence and HCU are associated with injury characteristics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In future running promotion programs (eg in Start-to-Run programs), specific attention should be paid to acute injuries and to muscle-tendon injuries in the ankle/foot region.

Developmental trajectories of social participation in individuals with cerebral palsy: a multicentre longitudinal study.

AIM: This study aimed to determine the developmental trajectories of social participation, by level of gross motor function and intellectual disability, in a Dutch population of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 1 to 24 years. METHOD: As part of the Pediatric Rehabilitation Research in the Netherlands (PERRIN+), 424 individuals with CP (261 males, 163 females; mean age [SD] 9y 6mo [6y 2mo]; Gross Motor Function Classification [GMFCS] levels I-V [50% level I]; 87% with spastic CP; 26% with intellectual disability) were longitudinally followed for up to 4 years between 2002 and 2007. Social participation was assessed with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales survey. Effects of age, GMFCS level and intellectual disability were analysed using multilevel modelling. RESULTS: The developmental trajectories for individuals in GMFCS levels I to IV did not significantly differ from each other. For individuals without intellectual disability, the degree of social participation increased with age and stabilized at about 18 years. These individuals reached social participation levels similar to typically developing individuals. The trajectories were significantly less favourable for individuals in GMFCS level V and individuals with intellectual disability. INTERPRETATION: Intellectual disability is more distinctive for the development of social participation than GMFCS level. The developmental trajectories will support individuals with CP and their families in setting realistic goals and professionals in optimizing the choice of interventions at an early age.

How do changes in motor capacity, motor capability, and motor performance relate in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy?

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relations between changes in motor capacity (can do, in standardized environment), motor capability (can do, in daily environment), and motor performance (does do, in daily environment) among children with cerebral palsy (CP). DESIGN: Prospective longitudinal study. After baseline measurements (at the age of 18 mo, 30 mo, 5 y, 7 y, 9 y, 11 y, or 13 y), 2-year follow-up measurements were performed. Change scores were calculated, and Pearson correlations were used for change score relations. SETTING: Outpatient clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Toddlers, school-age children, and adolescents with CP (N=321; 200 boys, 121 girls). Levels of severity according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System included level I (42%), level II (15%), level III (17%), level IV (13%), and level V (13%). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Change in motor capacity was assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure-66. Changes in motor capability and motor performance were assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory using the Functional Skills Scale and Caregiver Assistance Scale, respectively. RESULTS: Within the total group, change score correlations were moderate (.52-.67) and significant (P<.001). For age groups, correlations were significantly higher in toddlers than school-age children and adolescents. For severity levels, correlations were significantly higher in children at level III than level I, IV, and V. CONCLUSIONS: Results imply that change in motor capacity does not automatically translate to change in motor capability and change in motor capability does not automatically translate to change in motor performance. Results also show different relations for clinically relevant subgroups. These are important insights for clinical practice because they can guide evidence-based interventions with a focus on activities.

The preventive effect of the Nordic hamstring exercise on hamstring injuries in amateur soccer players: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Hamstring injuries are the most common muscle injury in male amateur soccer players and have a high rate of recurrence, often despite extensive treatment and long rehabilitation periods. Eccentric strength and flexibility are recognised as important modifiable risk factors, which have led to the development of eccentric hamstring exercises, such as the Nordic hamstring exercise. As the effectiveness of the Nordic hamstring exercise in reducing hamstring injuries has never been investigated in amateur soccer players, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of this exercise on the incidence and severity of hamstring injuries in male amateur soccer players. An additional aim is to determine whether flexibility is associated with hamstring injuries. STUDY DESIGN: Cluster-randomised controlled trial with soccer teams as the unit of cluster. METHODS: Dutch male amateur soccer players, aged 18-40 years, were allocated to an intervention or control group. Both study groups continued regular soccer training during 2013, but the intervention group additionally performed the Nordic hamstring exercise (25 sessions over 13 weeks). Primary outcomes are the incidence of initial and recurrent hamstring injury and injury severity. Secondary outcomes are hamstring-and-lower-back flexibility and compliance. Compliance to the intervention protocol was also monitored. DISCUSSION: Eccentric hamstring strength exercises are hypothesised to reduce the incidence of hamstring injury among male amateur soccer players by 70%. The prevention of such injuries will be beneficial to soccer players, clubs, football associations, health insurance companies and society. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NTR3664.

Determinants of Developmental Gain in Daily Activities in Young Children with Cerebral Palsy.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to examine which child and family characteristics at the child's age of 2 years are determinants of development of self-care and mobility activities over a period of 2 years in young children with cerebral palsy (CP). Longitudinal data of 92 children, representing all levels of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), were analyzed. Children's self-care and mobility activities were assessed with the Functional Skills Scale of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory. Development of self-care and mobility activities was related to several child determinants but no family determinants. GMFCS, type of CP, intellectual capacity, and epilepsy were related to the development of self-care and mobility activities, while manual ability and spasticity were related to development of mobility activities. Multivariate analysis indicated that GMFCS and intellectual capacity were the strongest determinants of development of self-care activities, and GMFCS was the strongest determinant of development of mobility activities. The change in self-care and mobility activities was less favorable in severely affected children with severe disability. Knowledge of GMFCS level and intellectual capacity is important in anticipating change over time and goal setting in young children with CP.

Longitudinal development of gross motor function among Dutch children and young adults with cerebral palsy: an investigation of motor growth curves.

AIM: The aim of this study was to describe patterns for gross motor development by level of severity in a Dutch population of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). METHOD: This longitudinal study included 423 individuals (260 males, 163 females) with CP. The mean age at baseline was 9 years 6 months (SD 6y 2mo, range 1-22y). The level of severity of CP among participants, according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), was 50% level I, 13% level II, 14% level III, 13% level IV, and 10% level V. Participants had been assessed up to four times with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66) at 1- or 2-year intervals between 2002 and 2009. Data were analysed using non-linear mixed effects modelling. For each GMFCS level, patterns were created by contrasting a stable limit model (SLM) with a peak and decline model (PDM), followed by estimating limits and rates of gross motor development. RESULTS: The SLM showed a better fit for all GMFCS levels than the PDM. Within the SLM, significant differences between GMFCS levels were found for both the limits (higher values for lower GMFCS levels) and the rates (higher values for GMFCS levels I-II vs level IV and for GMFCS levels I-IV vs level V) of gross motor development. INTERPRETATION: The results validate the existence of five distinct patterns for gross motor development by level of severity of CP.

The NLstart2run study: health effects of a running promotion program in novice runners, design of a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Running is associated with desirable lifestyle changes. Therefore several initiatives have been undertaken to promote running. Exact data on the health effects as a result of participating in a short-term running promotion program, however, is scarce. One important reason for dropout from a running program is a running-related injury (RRI). The incidence of RRIs is high, especially in novice runners. Several studies examined potential risk factors for RRIs, however, due to the often underpowered studies it is not possible to reveal the complex mechanism leading to an RRI yet.The primary objectives are to determine short- and long-term health effects of a nationwide "Start to Run" program and to identify determinants for RRIs in novice runners. Secondary objectives include examining reasons and determinants for dropout, medical consumption and economical consequences of RRIs as a result of a running promotion program. METHODS/DESIGN: The NLstart2run study is a multi-center prospective cohort study with a follow-up at 6, 12, 24 and 52 weeks. All participants that sign up for the Start to Run program in 2013, which is offered by the Dutch Athletics Federation, will be asked to participate in the study.During the running program a digital running log will be completed by the participants every week to administer exposure and running related pain. After the running program the log will be completed every second week. An RRI is defined as any musculoskeletal ailment of the lower extremity or back that the participant attributed to running and hampers running ability for at least one week. DISCUSSION: The NLstart2run study will provide insight into the short- and long-term health effects as a result of a short-term running promotion program. Reasons and determinants for dropout from a running promotion program will be examined as well. The study will result in several leads for future RRI prevention and as a result minimize dropout due to injury. This information may increase the effectiveness of future running promotion programs and will thereby contribute positively to public health. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The Netherlands National Trial Register NTR3676. The NTR is part of the WHO Primary Registries.

Perceptions of pediatric physical therapists and physical educators on classifying learning styles of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

The purpose of this study was to examine professionals' perceptions on classifying learning styles in the context of teaching motor activities to children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). The participants were 21 pediatric physical therapists (PPTs) and seven physical educators (PEs) in three schools for special education in The Netherlands. All participants were introduced to the key descriptions of two existing learning style instruments (Kolb's Learning Style Inventory and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator), applied them to children and adolescents with CP, and reported their perceptions in written surveys. This study had a mixed-methods design. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses showed that PPTs and PEs are mostly positive about the idea of classifying learning styles in the context of teaching motor activities to children and adolescents with CP, giving three main reasons: individual approach, professional communication, and treatment awareness. Additionally, qualitative data analysis showed that the key descriptions of the two learning style instruments were not feasible as classifications for children and adolescents with CP. It is therefore recommended that other learning style classification instruments should be explored and that possibly a new learning style classification instrument should be developed in the context of teaching motor activities to children and adolescents with CP.

Relationship between gross motor capacity and daily-life mobility in children with cerebral palsy.

AIM: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between gross motor capacity and daily-life mobility in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and to explore the moderation of this relationship by the severity of CP. METHOD: Cross-sectional analysis in a cohort study with a clinic-based sample of children with CP (n=116; 76 males, 40 females; mean age 6 y 3 mo, SD 12 mo, range 4 y 8 mo-7 y 7 mo) was performed. Gross motor capacity was assessed by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66). Daily-life mobility was assessed using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI): Functional Skills Scale (FSS mobility) and Caregiver Assistance Scale (CAS mobility). Severity of CP was classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System (48% level I, 17% level II, 15% level III, 8% level IV, 12% level V), type of motor impairment (85% spastic, 12% dyskinetic, 3% ataxic), and limb distribution (36% unilateral, 49% bilateral spastic). RESULTS: Scores on the GMFM-66 explained 90% and 84% respectively, of the variance of scores on PEDI-FSS mobility and PEDI-CAS mobility. Limb distribution moderated the relationship between scores on the GMFM-66 and the PEDI-FSS mobility, revealing a weaker relationship in children with unilateral spastic CP (24% explained variance) than in children with bilateral spastic CP (91% explained variance). INTERPRETATION: In children aged 4 to 7 years with unilateral spastic CP, dissociation between gross motor capacity and daily-life mobility can be observed, just as in typically developing peers.

Designing a tool to support patient and public involvement in research projects: the Involvement Matrix.

BACKGROUND: Interest in patient involvement in research is growing. Research should rather be 'with' or 'by' patients, and not only be 'about' or 'for' patients. Patients' active involvement in research is not self-evident and special efforts have to be made. If we make efforts towards patient involvement, it could contribute to even more relevant projects with an even greater impact. In this paper we describe the process of development of a tool to support patient involvement in research projects. METHODS: The tool development was done in a co-creation of experience experts (patients and their parents/relatives) together with researchers. We used a participatory method in an iterative process comprising three consecutive stages. First, the purpose for the tool was explored, using focus groups. Second, the main ingredients and conceptualization for the tool were determined, using a narrative review. Third, the so-called Involvement Matrix was formalized and finalized using various expert panels. RESULTS: A conversation tool was developed, through which researchers and patients could discuss and explain their roles of involvement in a research project. This tool was formalized and visualized as a 'matrix'. The so-called Involvement Matrix describes five roles (i.e., Listener, Co-thinker, Advisor, Partner, and Decision-maker) and three phases (i.e., Preparation, Execution, and Implementation) and includes a user's guide. CONCLUSION: The Involvement Matrix can be used prospectively to discuss about possible roles of patients in different phases of projects, and retrospectively to discuss whether roles were carried out satisfactorily. Sharing experiences with the Involvement Matrix and evaluating its impact are the next steps in supporting patient involvement in research.

Participation in Social Roles of Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy: Exploring Accomplishment and Satisfaction.

OBJECTIVE: To explore participation in social roles of adolescents (aged 12-18y) with cerebral palsy (CP), in terms of satisfaction compared with accomplishment. DESIGN: Cohort study as part of a prospective longitudinal research program. SETTING: Clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Participants were adolescents (N=45; 58% male, mean age 15y 6mo) with CP at levels I-II (88%) and III-IV-V (12%) of the Gross Motor Function Classification System. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Accomplishment (0-9 scale; with score <8 "having difficulties") and satisfaction (1-5 scale; with score 3 "neutral") were assessed using the Life-Habits questionnaire, on 6 domains (Responsibilities, Interpersonal relationships, Community life, Education, Employment, Recreation). Per domain, we analyzed scatterplots of accomplishment vs satisfaction. Additionally, we compared determinant-models (including factors of CP, activity, person, and environment) using regression analysis. RESULTS: For accomplishment, mean scores were <8.00 except for Interpersonal relationships. For satisfaction, mean scores varied between 3.85 and 4.34. Overall, individuals with similar levels of accomplishment showed large ranges in their levels of satisfaction, which was expressed by low explained variances, especially on Education (6%). Furthermore, different sets of determinants were found for accomplishment (predominantly CP factors) compared with satisfaction (predominantly environment factors). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed a dissociation between participation accomplishment and satisfaction with participation among adolescents with CP. For practice and research, we recommend not only to focus on accomplishment but also, if not mainly, on satisfaction.

Mobility and self-care trajectories for individuals with cerebral palsy (aged 1-21 years): a joint longitudinal analysis of cohort data from the Netherlands and Canada.

BACKGROUND: A good understanding of developmental trajectories is crucial for making prognoses, planning interventions, and monitoring progress in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Our study aimed to describe developmental trajectories of mobility and self-care capability in a large sample of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy from the Netherlands and Canada. METHODS: We did longitudinal data analyses of cohorts from the Netherlands (Pediatric Rehabilitation Research in the Netherlands; PERRIN) and Ontario, Canada (Adolescent Study of Quality of Life, Mobility, and Exercise; ASQME). All participants had a confirmed diagnosis of cerebral palsy and ranged in age from 1 year to 17 years at baseline, and were recruited from rehabilitation centres and university medical centres. Individuals diagnosed with additional conditions affecting motor function other than cerebral palsy (eg, spina bifida or muscle diseases) were excluded. After baseline assessment, up to three follow-up assessments were done at 1 year intervals. The whole spectrum of severity of cerebral palsy was represented in terms of motor function, using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Mobility and self-care capability were assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). We applied non-linear mixed-effects modelling to estimate limits, rates, and variations of development. FINDINGS: For both projects, recruitment took place between 2002 and 2007. The combined dataset included 551 individuals with cerebral palsy (321 individuals from the PERRIN programme and 230 from ASQME), aged 1 year to 17 years at baseline, with longitudinal data available for up to 4 years. On the basis of a total of 1754 PEDI observations, we created developmental curves for ages 1-21 years. Both for mobility and self-care, limits and rates of development differed among individuals across GMFCS levels, resulting in distinct curves. For individuals classified as being in GMFCS level I, the estimated mean limit for mobility and self-care were both higher than 90 (95·6, 95% CI 94·5-96·7 for mobility and 91·8, 90·1-93·4 for self-care), indicating capability for most if not all items on the PEDI. By comparison, the estimated mean limits for children in levels II-V varied from 83·0 (80·3-85·7) to 23·6 (20·7-26·4), with increasing limitations in mobility and self-care capability for higher GMFCS levels. Individuals with lower GMFCS levels (ie, less severe cerebral palsy) showed higher developmental limits that were reached during a longer period of development. However, among individuals within the same GMFCS level, we found substantial interindividual variation in development for mobility, and even more so for self-care. INTERPRETATION: Prognosis for mobility and self-care capability can largely be based on developmental trajectories for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy grouped by GMFCS level. The interindividual variation in development within GMFCS levels indicates that, in addition to GMFCS level, other contextual factors need to be considered when discussing prognosis and management. Using the curves for individuals with cerebral palsy aged 1 year to 21 years, we illustrate how this new knowledge can be applied in paediatric practice. FUNDING: The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Activity Performance Curves of Individuals With Cerebral Palsy.

: media-1vid110.1542/5804911840001PEDS-VA_2017-3723Video Abstract OBJECTIVES: Describe development curves of motor and daily activity performance in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Participants with CP aged 1 to 20 years at baseline (n = 421) and Gross Motor Functioning Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to V (27% of participants with intellectual disability [ID]) were longitudinally assessed up to a 13-year follow-up period. Motor and daily activity performance were assessed using the relevant subdomains of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales survey. Nonlinear mixed effects analyses were used, estimating the limit (average maximal performance level) and the age by which individuals reached 90% of the limit (age90). RESULTS: Limits of motor performance decreased with each lower functional level. Age90 for motor performance was reached at ∼6 to 8 years of age in children with GMFCS levels I to III, and at younger ages in those with lower functional levels. Limits of daily activity performance did not differ between individuals without ID with GMFCS levels I to III. The age90s of daily activities were reached between 11 and 14 (personal), 26 and 32 (domestic), and 22 and 26 years of age (community). Individuals with ID reached lower daily activity performance limits earlier. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with CP continue to develop motor performance after gross motor capacity limits are reached. For those without ID, daily activities continue to develop into their 20s. Individuals who are severely affected functionally have the least favorable development of motor performance, and those with ID have the least favorable development of daily activity performance.

No Relationship Between Hamstring Flexibility and Hamstring Injuries in Male Amateur Soccer Players: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: In soccer, although hamstring flexibility is thought to play a major role in preventing hamstring injuries, the relationship between hamstring flexibility and hamstring injuries remains unclear. PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between hamstring flexibility and hamstring injuries in male amateur soccer players. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: This study included 450 male first-class amateur soccer players (mean age, 24.5 years). Hamstring flexibility was measured by performing the sit-and-reach test (SRT). The relationship between hamstring flexibility and the occurrence of hamstring injuries in the following year, while adjusting for the possible confounding effects of age and previous hamstring injuries, was determined with a multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Of the 450 soccer players, 21.8% reported a hamstring injury in the previous year. The mean (±SD) baseline score for the SRT was 21.2 ± 9.2 cm. During the 1-year follow-up period, 23 participants (5.1%) suffered a hamstring injury. In the multivariate analysis, while adjusting for age and previous injuries, no significant relationship was found between hamstring flexibility and hamstring injuries ( P = .493). CONCLUSION: In this group of soccer players, hamstring flexibility (measured with the SRT) was not related to hamstring injuries. Age and previous hamstring injuries as possible confounders did not appear to influence this relationship. Other etiological factors need to be examined to further elucidate the mechanism of hamstring injuries.

Factors contributing to the longitudinal development of social participation in individuals with cerebral palsy.

AIMS: We aimed to determine factors associated with the longitudinal development of social participation in a Dutch population of individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP) aged 1-24 years. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: For this multicentre prospective longitudinal study, 424 individuals with CP aged 1-24 years were recruited from various rehabilitation centers in The Netherlands. Social participation was measured with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. We assessed associations with age, intellectual impairment, level of gross motor function, gender, type of CP, manual ability, epilepsy, hearing-, visual-, speech impairment and pain, internalizing- and externalizing behavioral problems, type of education and parental level of education. Each individual was measured 3 or 4 times. The time between measurements was 1 or 2 years. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Epilepsy and speech impairment were each independently associated with the longitudinal development of social participation. The effects were rather small and did not change with age. Also, a trend was found that children attending special education develop less favorably in social participation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Our results might provide parents and caregivers with starting points to further develop tailored support for individuals with epilepsy, with speech impairment and/or attending special education at risk for suboptimal social participation.