Scapular Alignment and Cerebral Palsy

Pediatric therapists often notice that scapular alignment can play a role in the function of individuals with cerebral palsy. Researchers took a closer look at the link between scapular alignment and upper extremity performance.

METHODOLOGY

This study included eighty-five children who were 3-6 years old (63 boys and 22 girls) with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy. To determine scapular upward rotation, each participant was evaluated using Postural Zone software. The Pediatric Arm Function Test was used to evaluate upper extremity functional abilities in this study.

RESULTS ON SCAPULAR ALIGNMENT AND CEREBRAL PALSY

Following data analysis the researchers determined the following:

  • a significant difference was noted in the degree of upward scapular rotation between less affected and affected sides.
  • a significant difference between the function of the upper extremity of the affected side and the less affected sides was also noted as expected.
  • a strong negative significant correlation between the degree of scapular upward rotation of the affected side, a unilateral score of the affected side, and the total score of the Pediatric Arm Function Test
  • a strong positive significant correlation between symmetry index and total score of the Pediatric Arm Function Test.

CONCLUSION

The researchers concluded that the degree of upward scapular rotation was less on the affected side. More research is needed to determine the cause and effect.

Rehabilitation professionals should consider correction of scapular alignment or deviations to help with upper extremity function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

REFERENCE

Metwaly, M. M., Salem, E. E., & Abbass, M. E. (2022). Correlation between scapular alignment and upper extremity function in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 1-8.