Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS)

The gross motor skills (e.g. sitting and walking) of children and young people with cerebral palsy can be categorised into 5 different levels using a tool called the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).

GMFCS looks at movements such as sitting and walking. It is helpful because it provides families and clinicians with:

  1. a clear description of a child’s current motor function, and
  2. an idea of what equipment or mobility aids a child may need in the future, e.g. crutches, walking frames or wheelchairs.

Generally, a child or young person over the age of 5 years will not improve their GMFCS level so, if for example, a child is classified at a Level IV at the age of 6 then it is likely that they will need to use a mobility device throughout their life.

GMFCS Levels

GMFCS Level I

  • Can walk indoors and outdoors and climb stairs without using hands for support
  • Can perform usual activities such as running and jumping
  • Has decreased speed, balance and coordination.

GMFCS Level II

  • Has the ability to walk indoors and outdoors and climb stairs with a railing
  • Has difficulty with uneven surfaces, inclines or in crowds
  • Has only minimal ability to run or jump.

GMFCS Level III

  • Walks with assistive mobility devices indoors and outdoors on level surfaces
  • May be able to climb stairs using a railing
  • May propel a manual wheelchair (may require assistance for long distances or uneven surfaces).

GMFCS Level IV

  • Walking ability severely limited even with assistive devices
  • Uses wheelchairs most of the time and may propel their own power wheelchair
  • May participate in standing transfers.

GMFCS Level V

  • Has physical impairments that restrict voluntary control of movement and the ability to maintain head and neck position against gravity
  • Is impaired in all areas of motor function
  • Cannot sit or stand independently, even with adaptive equipment
  • Cannot independently walk, though may be able to use powered mobility.

GMFCS descriptors copyright © Palisano et al. (1997) Dev Med Child Neurol 39:214-23 CanChild: www.canchild.ca

Illustrations copyright © Kerr Graham, Bill Reid and Adrienne Harvey,
The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne