Effect of a Trunk-targeted Intervention Using Vibration on Posture and Gait in Children with Spastic Type Cerebral Palsy: a Randomized Control Trial

Aim: This study aimed to determine whether strengthening trunk muscles using vibration can improve posture and gait in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy (STCP).

Methods: A total of 27 children (6-13 years) participated in a single-blinded pre-post crossover experimental trial. The 1-Minute Walk Test, 2D-posturography, ultrasound imaging and sit-ups in one minute were used to assess effect on gait, posture, resting abdominal muscle thickness and functional strength.

Results: Significant increase in distance walked (p < 0.001), more upright posture, an increase in sit-ups executed (p < 0.001) and an increase in resting thicknesses of all the four abdominal muscles--transversus abdominis (p = 0.047), obliquus internus (p = 0.003), obliquus externus (p = 0.023) and the rectus abdominis (p = 0.001) was recorded. Strength and posture were maintained at 4-weeks post-intervention.

Conclusion: A trunk-targeted intervention using vibration can improve posture and gait in children with STCP without any known side effects. It is recommended that vibration and specific trunk strengthening is included in training or rehabilitation programmes. Effects of vibration on force generation and spasticity need further investigation.