Validity and Reliability of Arch Height Index Measurement in Children With Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

KARATAŞ L., UTKAN KARASU A., ZİNNUROĞLU M.

Pediatric Physical Therapy, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1097/pep.0000000000001218
  • Dergi Adı: Pediatric Physical Therapy
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: arch height index, cerebral palsy, foot deformities, medial longitudinal arch, spastic diplegia
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Purpose: To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Arch Height Index (AHI) in assessing the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) structure in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP). Methods: Twenty children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP), aged 5-18 years, were assessed. AHI measurements were taken in sitting and standing positions. Arch flexibility index (AFI) was calculated. Reliability was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and validity was evaluated by correlating AHI with clinical parameters. Results: AHI measurements showed high interobserver reliability. AHI was significantly correlated with calcaneal pitch, navicular index, and Meary’s angle. A lower AHI was associated with decreased gross motor function, greater hip adductor spasticity, and ankle eversion range of motion. Conclusions: The AHI is a valid and reliable tool for assessing MLA in children with spastic diplegic CP. Lower arch height is associated with greater functional impairments.