Investigation of the effect of trunk training on posture and motor functions in individuals with unilateral cerebral palsy

The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of trunk training on posture and motor functions in individuals with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy. İndividuals with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy between 3 and 18 ages were included in the study. This study included 45 individuals and divided into 2 groups as the treatment group (n = 23) with trunk training according to the principles of Bobath Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) and the control group (n = 22) with classical physiotherapy. Sessions were two times a week for 8 weeks, 45 minutes for both groups. Evaluations were made twice as before and after treatment. İn the evaluation of individuals, the Gross Motor Function Classification System (KMFSS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), Communication Function Classification System (CFCS), Spinal Mouse and Spinal Alignment and Range of Motion Measurement (SAROMM), Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), Gross Motor Function Measurement-88 (GMFM-88), Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST), Dynamic Gait Index, Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (PBDS), Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS), Weight Transfer Test, Upper Extremity Selective Control Assessment Scale (SCUES), Lower Extremity Selective Control Assessment Scale (SCALE), Pediatric Quality of Life Scale 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module (PedsQL), Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDİ), Assessment of Life Habit (LİFE-H) were used. As a result of the study, a significant difference in posture, spinal mobility, trunk control (p<0.001), gross motor function (p=0.007), upper extremity skills (p<0.001), balance and gait functions, selective motor control of the lower and upper extremities, tonus in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, in favor of NDT, occurred in the treatment group in which trunk training was applied according to the principles of NDT. Classical physiotherapy produced improvements in SAROMM (p=0.010), gastrocnemius muscle tone (p=0.012) and quality of life. Trunk training according to NDT principles was found to be more effective in parameters related to activity, body structure and functions, compared to classical physiotherapy.