The Impact of Trunk Control and Balance on Functional Skills in Ambulatory Children With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Physical Therapy
• Neuromuscular Disorders
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) often exhibit impaired trunk control and balance, affecting functional capabilities.
• These impairments can negatively influence motor skills and independence in daily activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between trunk control, balance, and functional skills in ambulatory children diagnosed with DMD.
• To identify specific aspects of trunk control and balance that correlate with functional performance.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-two ambulatory boys with DMD (ages 5-12) participated.
• Assessments included the Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), Pediatric Functional Reach Test (PFRT), Timed-Up-and-Go Test (TUG), and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI).

Main Results:

• PEDI self-care scores correlated with TCMS selective movement control and PFRT.
• PEDI mobility scores showed significant correlations with TCMS static sitting balance, selective movement control, PFRT, and TUG.
• No significant correlations were found between PEDI social function scores and trunk control or balance measures.

Conclusions:

• Trunk control and balance are crucial for functional performance in ambulatory children with DMD.
• Improvements in trunk control and balance are likely to enhance self-care and mobility domains.
• These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions focusing on trunk stability and balance for this population.