CORRELATION OF TRUNK CONTROL AND LOWER LIMB FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY AMONG CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Background: CP is a non progressive neurological disorder characterized by motor impairments that affect trunk control and lower limb mobility. Effective postural control is essential for functional activities like walking, sitting and transitioning between postures in children with CP. Objective: To evaluate correlation between trunk control and lower limb functional mobility among children with CP. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted on 377 children aged 5 to 14 years diagnosed with CP. Trunk control was measured through TCM scale and lower limb functional mobility was assessed using FWT. Results: There was significant positive correlation between trunk control and lower limb functional mobility with strongest correlation between GMFCS level I (r=0.911, p=0.002), level II (r=0.735,p=0.034), Level II (r=0.922, p<0.001) and in ataxic CP (r=0.886), spastic CP (r=0.776), dyskinetic (0.866) and mixed CP (0698). Conclusion: There was positive correlation between trunk control and lower limb functional mobility among children with CP. Children with better trunk control are likely to have higher functional walking ability. Highest impairments were seen in children with spastic CP with GMFCS higher levels.