Effect of upper extremity constraints on functional and dynamic postural control in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. (19th May 2022) - Roostaei, Meysam
ABSTRACT: Purpose: To compare the effects of upper extremity constraints on functional and dynamic postural control in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Materials and Methods: Twelve children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and 12 typically developing children ages 5 to 12 years (GMFCS I–II) were evaluated with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Biodex Balance System during three upper extremity (UE) conditions: 1) Free UEs (no constraints), 2) Simple UE constraint (unaffected/dominant UE constrained with a sling), and 3) Difficult UE constraint (Simple constraint plus the other UE holding cup of water). Results: The UE condition had significant effects on Overall Stability Index (OSI) (F(2, 44) = 24.899, p < .001), Medial-Lateral Stability Index (MLSI) (F(2, 44) = 4.380, p = .018), Anterior-Posterior Stability Index (F(2, 44) = 6.187, p = .004), and TUG scores (F(2, 44) = 113.372, p < .001). Group was significant for OSI (F(1, 22) = 7.906, p = .010), MLSI (F(1, 22) = 13.113, p = .002), and TUG (F(1, 22) = 36.282, p < .001). Conclusions: The upper extremity appears to have a role in maintaining functional balance and postural stability in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and should be considered during intervention programs.