Changes in postural alignment when using kneeblocks for children with severe motor disorders

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Biomedical Engineering
• Clinical Orthopedics

Background:

• Children with severe motor disorders often require adaptive seating to prevent deformities.
• Objective evidence on the effectiveness of adaptive seating components is limited.
• This study investigates the impact of a specific adaptive seating system component on postural alignment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure changes in postural alignment in children with severe motor impairment (GMFCS 5) when using and not using kneeblock devices.
• To assess the immediate and delayed effects of kneeblock use on joint angles and overall body posture.
• To provide objective data on the effectiveness of adaptive seating components.

Main Methods:

• A seating system with a sacral pad and kneeblocks was evaluated.
• Postural alignment was measured in 23 children with GMFCS 5.
• Measurements were taken immediately and after a one-month delay, with and without kneeblocks.

Main Results:

• Removal or replacement of kneeblocks affected hip abduction and rotation on one side only.
• No significant immediate effects were observed on other joint angles or overall body posture.
• The study found limited objective evidence for the effectiveness of kneeblocks in improving overall postural alignment.

Conclusions:

• The postural management of children with neurological conditions necessitates further objective outcome measurement.
• Improvement of posture is one factor among many to consider when providing adaptive seating.
• Clinical practice should be based on objective data to optimize outcomes for children with severe motor disorders.