Reduction in Spasticity Following Postural Management Using Proper Wheelchairs in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Postural management plays a major role in the management of cerebral palsy patients. Studies on this subject are scarce in the Middle Eastern region. The objectives of the current study are to measure the effect of proper wheelchair selection on spasticity. Spasticity cerebral palsy patients, aged between 4 and 12 years, with a Gross Motor Functional Measurement score between three and five were eligible to be included in this study. The current study took place between July and December of 2020.Each included case was assessedfor muscular spasticity at three measurement intervals: on day one, after two weeks and after four weeks from the initial postural management intervention using proper wheelchair according to the World Health Organization protocol.Thirty-five children participated in this study. Postural management was associated with a statistically significant bilateral reduction in Modified Ashworth Scale score between the baseline and after 4 weeks of following up in the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hip joints (p-value <0.001). The results of this study can be used to highlight the benefits of proper selection of wheelchairs for this vulnerable group. They can be used to increase awareness regarding occupational therapy potential benefits. These results could be used to advocate for providing cerebral palsy patients with better postural management so they can achieve better health status.