The effect of asymmetrical limited hip flexion on seating posture, scoliosis and windswept hip distortion

Abstract

Background: Postural asymmetries with seating problems are common in adults with cerebral palsy.

Aims: To analyse the prevalence of asymmetrical limited hip flexion (<90°) in adults with CP, and to evaluate the association between asymmetrical limited hip flexion and postural asymmetries in the sitting position.

Methods and procedures: Cross-sectional data of 714 adults with CP, 16-73 years, GMFCS level I-V, reported to CPUP, the Swedish cerebral palsy national surveillance program and quality registry, from 2013 to 2015. Hip range of motion was analysed in relation to pelvic obliquity, trunk asymmetry, weight distribution, scoliosis and windswept hip distortion.

Outcomes and results: The prevalence of asymmetrical limited hip flexion increased as GMFCS level decreased. Of adults at GMFCS level V, 22% had asymmetrical limited hip flexion (<90°). The odds of having an oblique pelvis (OR 2.6, 95% CI:1.6-2.1), an asymmetrical trunk (OR 2.1, 95% CI:1.1-4.2), scoliosis (OR 3.7, 95% CI:1.3-9.7), and windswept hip distortion (OR 2.6, 95% CI:1.2-5.4) were higher for adults with asymmetrical limited hip flexion compared with those with bilateral hip flexion>90°.

Conclusions and implications: Asymmetrical limited hip flexion affects the seating posture and is associated with scoliosis and windswept hip distortion.

Keywords: Adult; Cerebral palsy; Contracture; Hip; Pelvis; Posture; Range of motion; Scoliosis.