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Assessing physical activity and balance challenges in children with obstetric brachial plexus palsy
Büşra Gül1, Güleser Güney Yılmaz2, Burcu Semin Akel1
1Department of Physiotherapy, Istanbul Kültür University, İstanbul, Turkey.
Insights
Children with Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy (OBPP) have impaired dynamic balance, especially in the posterolateral direction. Physical activity and static balance were similar to controls, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Movement Science
Background:
- Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy (OBPP) can affect motor development.
- Understanding physical activity and balance deficits is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate physical activity and balance in children with OBPP.
- To investigate the relationship between physical activity and balance in this population.
Main Methods:
- 58 children with OBPP and 58 controls (aged 7-12) were assessed.
- Physical activity (PAQ-C), dynamic balance (YBT), and static balance (OLS) were measured.
- Group comparisons and logistic regression were used.
Main Results:
- Children with OBPP showed significant deficits in dynamic balance (posterolateral direction).
- No significant differences were found in static balance or physical activity levels.
- Posterolateral balance score predicted group classification.
Conclusions:
- OBPP is associated with significant dynamic balance impairments, particularly lateral stability.
- Targeted interventions for postural control are recommended.
- Comprehensive assessments are vital for rehabilitation planning.
Objective:
To evaluate physical activity and balance in children with OBPP (Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy) and investigate the relationship between these variables.
Participants And Setting:
The study included 58 children with OBPP and 58 healthy controls aged 7-12 years.
Methods:
Physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C). Dynamic balance was evaluated with the Y Balance Test (YBT), and static balance was assessed using the One-Leg Standing (OLS) test. Outcome measures included scores from these assessments and group comparisons.
Results:
Children with OBPP showed significant deficits in dynamic balance, particularly in the posterolateral direction (p < 0.05), while static balance and physical activity levels did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). Logistic regression identified the left posterolateral balance score as a significant positive predictor for group classification (p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
Children with OBPP experience significant impairments in dynamic balance, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address postural control and lateral stability. Comprehensive assessments incorporating physical activity and balance measures are crucial for developing effective rehabilitation strategies.
