Yunus Emre KUNDAKCI, Rabia KUNDAKCI, Emel TAŞVURAN HORATA, İsmail SARAÇOĞLU
İnönü Üniversitesi Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksek Okulu Dergisi - 2026;14(2):271-281
The aim of this study was to investigate spatiotemporal gait parameters and gait-related symmetry indices in children with specific learning disabilities (SLD). Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition - Short Form (BOT-2 SF) was administered to 33 children with SLD (42.4% girls, mean age=10.1+/-1.3 years) and gait parameters were analyzed using BTS G-Walk. Correlation and regression analyses examined the relationships between gait parameters and BOT-2 SF scores. The total BOT-2 SF test score of children with SLD ranged between 24 and 73, with a mean score of 56.6+/-11.2. When gait parameters were analyzed, the mean cadence was 112.7+/-16.1 steps/min, step length was 1.2+/-0.2 m and gait speed was 1.2+/-0.3 m/sec. Except for pelvic tilt symmetry indices, the other gait-related symmetry indices were above 95%. Five subtests and the total BOT-2 SF score were significantly correlated with seven gait parameters (p<0.05). Balance skills were an explanatory factor for cadence (p<0.05). BOT-2 SF subtests, such as running speed and agility, bimanual coordination, and strength, significantly predicted pelvic symmetry (p<0.05). This study presents preliminary findings indicating that various motor skill areas, particularly balance and coordination, are associated with gait-related parameters in children with SLD. Consequently, our findings suggest that considering motor skill areas such as balance and coordination in the clinical gait assessment processes of children with SLD may be beneficial.
