Traditional classifications of CP involved three basic considerations:
Classification systems for CP - Traditional
Classification systems for CP - New
TODAY, we use several purpose-designed functional classification systems, created using principles of measurement science, that in each case provide ‘word pictures’ of five mutually distinct graded ‘levels’ of function, and focus on what people can do rather than on what they cannot. Note that these are NOT assessment tools, nor are they designed to measure change in functioning over time.
An overview of these systems is provided in: Rosenbaum PL, Eliasson A-C, Hidecker MJC, Palisano RJ (2014). Classification in Childhood Disability: Focusing on Function in the 21st Century. J Ped Neurol Volume 29(8):1036-1045 (published online 7 May 2014DOI: 10.1177/0883073814533008)