Dynamic Surface Exercise Training in Improving Trunk Control and Gross Motor Functions among Children with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Single Center, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background:

Dynamic surface provides proprioceptive and vestibular feedback with optimal level of arousal. The activities on unstable environment have greater sensorimotor experiences. There is a lack of evidence examining the benefits of dynamic surface exercise training (DSET) among the children with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy (CP).

Aim:

The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of dynamic surface exercises on trunk control and gross motor functions in children with quadriplegic CP.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 30 children with spastic quadriplegic CP with Gross Motor Function Classification System of levels III and IV were recruited by the simple random sampling method (random number generator) to participate in this randomized controlled study. Recruited children were randomly divided into two groups, DSET group and standard physiotherapy training group. Both the groups received active training program lasting for 60 min, 4 days/week for 6 weeks. Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM)-88 and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) scores were recorded at baseline, and at the end of 6-week post-intervention.

Results:

Total 30 children with quadriplegic CP with mean age 6.64 ± 2.15 years in experimental group and 6.50 ±1.59 years in control group participated in the study. Experimental group showed a significant difference for GMFM and PBS scores between pre- and post-intervention with P < 0.005. A significant difference was observed in GMFM scores between experimental and control group with P < 0.005.

Conclusion:

Six-week dynamic surface exercise therapy along with standard physiotherapy was effective in improving trunk control and gross motor function performance among children with spastic quadriplegic CP aged 6–12 years.