Modified desk height helps children with cerebral palsy perform sit-to-stand

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have difficulties performing activities that require the use of fundamental motor skills such as sit-to-stand (STS). In this study, we used a height adjustable chair and desk to investigate the role of desk support in STS and how it might benefit children with CP.

Seventeen typically developing children (TDC), average age = 9.7 years, and 28 children with CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] I and II), average age = 10.3 years, participated in the test. Elapsed time and body sway were measured using a pressure mat and load cell while each child performed a STS task. Two different desk heights were tested for time consumption and sway under the condition of hands-on-desk and arms-crossed.

We found that the elapsed time of hands-on-desk with the elbow flexion height was the shortest (p < 0.05). Sway amount was also significantly reduced for all children when they used the table for STS (p < 0.05).

Results of this study may be a useful reference in rehabilitation training and designing a desk height beneficial for children with CP.Implications for RehabilitationBetter performance of sit-to-stand for a child with cerebral palsy could be made by a desk supportElapsed time during preparation period for sit-to-stand could be reduced by desk support for all CP childrenSway amount during sit-to-stand could be reduced by desk support, especially for the CP children with GMFCS level IIDesk height is an important parameter and should be studied in detail.