Evaluation of children with developmental coordination disorder within the scope of ICF from a physiotherapist's perspective

This study aimed to contribute to the literature by evaluating children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) within the scope of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) compared to their typically developing peers and revealing the difference between them. 15 children with DCD between the ages of 5-8 years who volunteered to participate in the study (Study Group) and 15 children with typical development who volunteered to participate in the study (Control Group) in the same age range were included. The study was conducted at Hacettepe University Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Developmental and Early Rehabilitation and Cerebral Palsy and Pediatric Rehabilitation Units. Body structure and function were assessed using the Sensory Processing Scale and Beighton Score; activity levels were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Test and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adaptive Test; participation levels were assessed using the Pediatric Data Collection Instrument and the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire; the European Child Environment Questionnaire was used to assess the effect of environmental factors; and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to assess the effect of personal factors. After all tests were administered to all children and their parents according to the way the test was administered, according to the findings obtained in our study, a significant difference was found in all ICF parameters of children with DCD compared to their typically developing peers (p<0.05). According to the results of our study, it was statistically determined that the body structure and functions, activity levels and participation levels of children with DCD were weaker compared to their typically developing peers and were more affected by environmental and personal factors compared to their peers. As a result, it is important to support children with DCD holistically in terms of structure, function, activity and participation within the scope of ICF, to regulate environmental factors and to address personal factors. We think that with early and correct intervention and appropriate physiotherapy and rehabilitation approaches, the negative effects of the disease can be reduced by increasing their participation in life.