Assessment of balance in children with obstetric brachial plexus injury

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate static-dynamic balance and postural control parameters in children with obstetric brachial plexus injury (OBPI) in comparison with their healthy peers. Method: Twenty children aged 4-14 years with OBPI and 20 healthy children were included in the study. Extremity functions of children with OBPI were scored with Modified Mallet Classification System (MMCS) and Active Movement Scale (AMS). Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Timed Up and Down Stairs Test (TUDST) were used in assesment of functional mobility. Balance Master Test System was used for specific evaluations of static-dynamic balance and postural control parameters. Results: Demographic characteristics were similar among the groups. Statistically significant differences were found in TUGT, TUDST, modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance, unilateral stance test, limits of stability test, walk across test, tandem walk test and step up/over test scores against the OBPI group (p<0,05). Conclusion: The results of our study showed that the children with OBPI slowed down in functional mobility activities compared to their healthy peers. Results also showed that children with OBPI had increase in postural sway, decrease in limits of stability, poorer static and dynamic balance skills. Besides, it was found that the children with OBPI had an inadequate weight transfer to the lower extremity of the affected side, which adversely affected lower extremity muscle strength. In individuals with OBPI, whole body should be reviewed with holistic approaches, and problems that may occur should be addressed and treated from an early stage.