Linda McNamara1, Jackie Casey. 1. School of Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim BT37 0QB, Northern Ireland, UK.
Abstract
PURPOSE: An evaluation of the current research evaluating the impact of seat inclinations upon postural control, muscle activity and upper extremity function in children with cerebral palsy. METHOD: A literature review searching 13 electronic databases was undertaken. Inclusion criteria were applied to abstracts found; full text research articles were retrieved and a critical review of the eligible articles completed. RESULTS: Ten studies were reviewed which investigated the effect of seat inclinations. Improved postural control and a reduction in pathological movements were achieved in anterior tilt; reduced postural sway was evident for children with spastic cerebral palsy sitting on anterior incline, and increased sway for those with hypotonia; extensor thrust was evoked when in posterior incline; and there was evidence of improved arm and hand function whilst seated in the functional sitting position as opposed a posterior seat incline. CONCLUSIONS: (i) The current literature is inconclusive, however there are indications that neutral and anterior seat inclines do positively affect function for children with cerebral palsy; (ii) Individual assessment of seating ability and need is advocated for these children rather than the adoption of a universal seat incline.
PURPOSE: An evaluation of the current research evaluating the impact of seat inclinations upon postural control, muscle activity and upper extremity function in children with cerebral palsy. METHOD: A literature review searching 13 electronic databases was undertaken. Inclusion criteria were applied to abstracts found; full text research articles were retrieved and a critical review of the eligible articles completed. RESULTS: Ten studies were reviewed which investigated the effect of seat inclinations. Improved postural control and a reduction in pathological movements were achieved in anterior tilt; reduced postural sway was evident for children with spastic cerebral palsy sitting on anterior incline, and increased sway for those with hypotonia; extensor thrust was evoked when in posterior incline; and there was evidence of improved arm and hand function whilst seated in the functional sitting position as opposed a posterior seat incline. CONCLUSIONS: (i) The current literature is inconclusive, however there are indications that neutral and anterior seat inclines do positively affect function for children with cerebral palsy; (ii) Individual assessment of seating ability and need is advocated for these children rather than the adoption of a universal seat incline.