Physiotherapy interventions for head and trunk control in children with developmental disabilities: A scoping review...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Developmental Neuroscience

Background:

• Head and trunk control is crucial for environmental engagement, integrating sensory and motor functions.
• Children with developmental disabilities often struggle with head and trunk control, impacting participation.
• Physiotherapy and technology-based interventions are explored to enhance these skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and summarize existing research on interventions for head and trunk control in children with developmental disabilities.
• To identify and synthesize findings from physiotherapy and technology-based approaches.
• To provide an overview of the current evidence base.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
• Inclusion of studies on children aged 6 months to 17 years 11 months with developmental disabilities affecting head/trunk alignment.
• Searches across major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, PEDro, Cochrane) and grey literature.

Main Results:

• The review will synthesize data from various study designs including RCTs and systematic reviews.
• Extracted data will be presented using tables and visual representations.
• The findings will highlight the range and nature of interventions studied.

Conclusions:

• This review will provide a comprehensive overview of interventions for head and trunk control in pediatric developmental disabilities.
• It aims to identify gaps in the literature and inform future research directions.
• The findings will support evidence-based practice for clinicians and researchers in the field.