FEEDING PROBLEMS AT DIFFERENT LEVEL OF GROSS MOTOR FUNCTION IN CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the Association and frequency of feeding problems at different level of Gross Motor Function among Cerebral Palsy children. Methodology: The study design was cross-sectional study; Data was collected from Rising Son and Children Hospital Lahore and completed within 4 months (from March 2019 to July 2019) after approval of synopsis. 41 children, age 2-8 years of age were selected.  Data collected using Standardized variables by Nonprobability sampling & analyzed by SPSS-25. Results: Significant association was found between the level of GMFCS and feeding difficulties (Refuse to eat (P=0.007) and takes >20 minutes to finish meal (P=0.047). No Significant association was found between level of GMFCS and feeding difficulties including (food sits in child’s mouth (P=0.788), Child chokes or gags at mealtimes (P=0.723), child’s eats only ground, strained or soft food (P=0.620) and require NG feed (P=0.582)). Feeding problems including difficulty in chewing 26.8%, Choking during meal 29.26%, Takes >20 minutes for meal 68.3%, NG feeds 4.9%. food sits in child’s mouth and does not swallow it 26.83% Occasionally and 24.4% Regularly. 78.0% child’s eats only ground, strained or soft food. 22.05% refuse to eat but requests food immediately after the meal. Conclusion: Significant association was found between level of GMFCS and feeding difficulties (Refuse to eat and takes >20 minutes to finish a meal). No Significant association was found between level of GMFCS and feeding difficulties including (food sits in child’s mouth, Child chokes or gags at mealtimes, child’s eats only ground, strained or soft food and require NG feed). Keywords: Cerebral Palsy, Dysphagia Gross Motor Function Classification System