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Longitudinal study evaluating a seating system using a sacral pad and kneeblock for children with cerebral palsy
Rachael L McDonald1, Robert Surtees
1UCL Institute of Child Health, The Wolfson Centre, London, UK. r.mcdonald@ich.ucl.ac.uk
Disability and Rehabilitation
|July 7, 2007
Summary
Adaptive seating systems with kneeblocks may improve hip positioning in children with cerebral palsy but do not significantly enhance overall posture. Further research is needed to confirm these findings for effective postural support.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Clinical Biomechanics
Background:
- Adaptive seating systems with sacral pads and kneeblocks are standard in the UK for children with complex motor disorders.
- These systems aim to enhance sitting posture and stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of adaptive seating systems with sacral pads and kneeblocks for children with cerebral palsy.
- To determine if this combination controls pelvic and hip positioning.
Main Methods:
- A six-visit trial involving 23 children (7-14 years) with cerebral palsy.
- Kneeblocks were removed mid-trial to assess their impact.
- Measurements included force exerted through kneeblocks, sacral pad pressure, and postural alignment.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences in force at the kneeblock were observed after removal.
- No significant differences in sacral pad pressure or overall postural alignment were found.
- No significant correlations were identified between force, pressure, and posture.
Conclusions:
- Adaptive seating systems with sacral pads and kneeblocks may not universally improve posture in children with cerebral palsy.
- These systems might offer benefits for hip positioning.
- The findings suggest a nuanced effect of adaptive seating components on pediatric posture.
