Functional balance and gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy.

Pavão et al. (2014) tested the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) in children with cerebral palsy. They wanted to know if PBS scores line up with the five-level GMFCS system that doctors already use.

The team gave the PBS to kids who could walk with little or no aid. They then checked if the scores could tell the difference between mild and moderate motor problems.

PBS scores split the children into the correct GMFCS level two-thirds of the time. The scale caught real balance gaps between levels I, II, and III.

In plain words, a higher PBS score meant better balance and a lower GMFCS level.

Chen et al. (2013) looked one year earlier at strength as a predictor. They found that stronger knee muscles forecast small gains in balance and coordination. Leticia’s work adds a quick clinical scale you can use right now, no strength lab needed.

Lin et al. (2012) showed the PMAL can track arm use changes. Like the PBS, it gives clear cut-offs. Both papers give busy clinicians numbers they can trust on Monday morning.

Wagels et al. (2020) reviewed 19 imaging studies. Brain scans predicted arm function, yet the review notes sparse evidence for balance. Leticia fills that gap with a low-cost floor test instead of an MRI.

You now have a 14-item balance test that sorts ambulatory kids with CP into GMFCS levels I-III without gear or long reports. Use the PBS at intake, after therapy blocks, or before discharge to show clear, numeric change. If the score jumps, you have evidence balance is really improving.