Factor analysis of the Gait Outcomes Assessment List's goal questions: A new method to measure goal prioritization in ambulatory individuals with cerebral palsy

Abstract

It is important to provide care that meets the goals of patients and their families. Physicians who treat children with special healthcare needs, such as cerebral palsy (CP), want better assessment tools to understand these goals. CP is a group of disorders that often includes difficulties in walking. This article used an existing questionnaire in a new way to better understand how individuals with CP prioritize their goals related to walking.

The study included a diverse group of 622 individuals with CP who had at least some ability to walk. Participants completed the Gait Outcomes Assessment List (GOAL), a questionnaire used to evaluate various aspects of walking in individuals with CP, including how important it is to improve each aspect (goal responses). The authors used a statistical method called factor analysis to analyze the goal responses of the GOAL questionnaire. Factor analysis helps identify patterns in data by grouping related questions together. The researchers found the goal responses could be grouped into eight distinct categories of walking-related to goals: (1) activities of daily living and independence; (2) gait, function, and mobility; (3) pain and discomfort; (4) fatigue; (5) physical activities, sports, and recreation; (6) gait pattern and appearance; (7) use of braces and mobility aids; and (8) body image and self-esteem.

The strength of goal importance varied across each category and differed across functional levels.