Reliability and Responsiveness of the Timed Up and Go Test in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the absolute reliability and responsiveness of the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, as measured using minimal detectable change (MDC) and minimal clinical important difference (MCID) values. Methods: Prospective observational study of children aged 3 to 10 years with cerebral palsy (CP) in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-III who completed the TUG test. Minimal detectable change estimates were calculated using baseline data. MCID estimates for each Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level were calculated using distribution- and anchor-based methods. Results: Minimal detectable change values ranged from 1.40 to 8.74 seconds and MCID estimates ranged from 0.22 to 5.31 seconds. Conclusions: The TUG test is a reliable and responsive measure of balance and mobility for children with CP between 3 and 10 years of age in GMFCS levels I-III. Study results support improved use of the TUG test in clinical and research settings by providing reliability values and estimates of meaningful change. Video Abstract: For more insights from the authors, see Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at http://links.lww.com/PPT/A117.