Impact of sensory perceptual motor core stability training on sitting control in children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Introduction: The ability to sit independently is essential for children, serving as a foundation for reaching and for daily activities. For children with cerebral palsy, especially bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP), this skill is often unattainable because of impaired neuromuscular control. Objective: We aimed to report the protocol for a randomized controlled trial of the novel Sensory Perceptual-Motor Core Stability Exercise Program (SPMCSEP) in improving sitting control in children with BSCP. Methods: This is a double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial. Seventy-two children with cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification Scale – ER III - IV) aged between 3 and 7 years will be recruited and randomly allocated to SPMCSEP and conventional therapy groups. Independent sitting will be evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks, and 8 weeks for all children using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale. Conclusion: This study explains the background, hypotheses, rationale, and methodology of the SPMCSEP protocol for children with BSCP, and will adhere to Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials and Standard Protocol Items Recommendations for Interventional Trials guidelines for reporting. The proposed SPMCSEP represents a novel approach for addressing impaired sitting control in children with BSCP.