Childhood cerebral palsy and the use of positioning systems to control body posture: Current practices

Abstract

Introduction: One of the consequences of poor postural control in children with cerebral palsy is hip dislocation. This is due to the lack of weight-bearing in the sitting and standing positions. Orthotic aids can be used to prevent onset and/or progression.

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of positioning systems in achieving postural control in patients with cerebral palsy, and discuss these findings with an emphasis on what may be of interest in the field of neurology.

Discussion: We selected a total of 18 articles on interventions in cerebral palsy addressing posture and maintenance of ideal postures to prevent deformities and related problems. The main therapeutic approaches employed combinations of botulinum toxin and orthoses, which reduced the incidence of hip dislocation although these results were not significant. On the other hand, using positioning systems in 3 different positions decreases use of botulinum toxin and surgery in children under 5 years old. The drawback is that these systems are very uncomfortable.

Conclusion: Postural control systems helps control hip deformities in children with cerebral palsy. However, these systems must be used for prolonged periods of time before their effects can be observed.

Keywords: Cerebral palsy; Control postural; Dislocation; Luxación; Ortesis; Orthotics; Parálisis cerebral; Postural control; Sedestación; Sitting.