Scapular Alignment and Upper Limb Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Purpose: To determine the effect of scapular alignment on upper limb function in hemiparetic children and to find relation between scapular alignment of the affected, less affected limb and the upper limb function in children with spastic hemiparesis Subjects: Forty children with spastic hemiparetic cerebral palsy, from both genders, were included in this study. They were selected from Outpatient Clinic of Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University. The age of the selected children was ranging from 3 to 6 years old. Degree of spasticity is ranging from 1 to 1+ according to modified Ashworth scale. Methods: Forty children with spastic hemiparetic cerebral palsy were assessed for scapular alignment using Postural zone software and for upper limb function using pediatric arm function test.

Subjects: Forty children with spastic hemiplegic CP, from both genders, were included in this study. They were selected from Outpatient Clinic of Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University. Inclusion criteria: Children were enrolled in this study according to the following criteria: 1. The age of the selected children was ranging from 3 to 6 years old . 2. Both genders were included. 3. They were able to follow instructions and understand commands. 4. Degree of spasticity is ranging from 1 to 1+ according to modified Ashworth scale. 5. Postural zone software was assess scapular alignment and pediatric arm function test was assess upper arm function . Exclusion criteria: The child was excluded from the study if he / she has one or more of the following: 1. Upper limb surgery in the last 12 months. 2. Children which had contracture, fracture, and fixed deformities in the upper limb. 3. Children with muscleoskletal abnormalities as fixed back deformities. Methods: Forty children with spastic hemiparetic cerebral palsy were assessed for scapular alignment using Postural zone software and for upper limb function using pediatric arm function test.