10/04/2026
What is the Musculoskeletal Natural History in CP (GMFCS III)?
Meet our amazing friend Ella! We have had the privilege to watch as her body change over many years as she grows!
The Big Picture:
Children with CP like Ella, classified as GMFCS III, walk with support, but their muscles and bones work extra hard.
Over time, this can shape how they move, stand, and stay active.
👧🏻In Early Childhood (0–6 years):
• Tight muscles start to appear
• Early gait patterns form (toe‑walking or crouch)
• Moderate risk of hip changes → regular checks matter
👩🏻In Middle Childhood (6–12 years):
This is the big growth phase.
• Hamstring + calf tightness increases
• Foot alignment changes (often planovalgus)
• Crouch gait becomes more noticeable
• Strength can’t keep up with growth
👩🏻💼In Adolescence (12–18 years):
Growth spurts + strength challenges = more strain on the body.
• Knee and hip pain may appear
• Walking endurance often drops with increased reliance on AT
• Contractures become more fixed
• Some kids shift to mixed mobility (walker + wheelchair)
So What Helps🤔
💪 Support that makes a difference
• Strength training that focuses on alignment!!!!!!!!!!!!!
• Active Stretching + contracture management
• Orthotics
• Regular hip and gait reviews
• Energy‑efficient mobility options
Key Message
Kids at GMFCS III become adults at GMFCS III. Like our friend Ella, kids that can stay active and mobile with the right support, become straight and strong adults, with reduced risk of developing chronic pain.
Early monitoring + smart interventions = long‑term participation🏆.
