Examination of the functional mobility assessment tool for children and adolescents with lower extremity amputations.

PURPOSE: To assess the validity of the Functional Mobility Assessment (FMA) for children and adolescents with lower extremity amputations. METHODS: Twenty-five subjects (mean age = 12.36 ± 1.42 years) with lower extremity amputations and 12 subjects (mean age = 10.25 ± 1.42 years) with typical development were examined using the FMA, which includes the Timed Up and Go, Timed Up and Down Stairs, 9-minute walk/run, heart rate, and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion. A subjective interview was also performed including questions related to pain, walking satisfaction, and participation in and challenges with various physical activities. RESULTS: Significant differences were identified between the control and amputation groups in FMA score and 3 individual items (P < .05). However, no differences were identified between groups for other items on the FMA. CONCLUSION: Discriminant validity of the FMA as a whole is supported. However, reevaluation of the items within the FMA is warranted.