A Current Approach to Postural Care for Patients with Cerebral Palsy

Agata Michalska, Zbigniew Śliwiński, Justyna Pogorzelska, Marek Grabski

Agata Michalska, Zbigniew Śliwiński, Justyna Pogorzelska, Marek Grabski – A Current Approach to Postural Care for Patients with Cerebral Palsy. Fizjoterapia Polska 2018; 18(3); 102-112

 

Abstract
Introduction. Rehabilitation is an essential component of therapeutic treatment in cerebral palsy (CP). One of its objectives is to prevent secondary musculoskeletal deformities. The use of various techniques to minimize postural abnormalities and enhance functions is defined as postural care (or postural management). It encompasses proper patient positioning in the lying, sitting and standing positions combined with physical therapy.
Purpose. The purpose of the study is to present a current approach to postural care based on the review of source literature.
Conclusions. No generally accepted recommendations on supporting lying, sitting and standing positions have not been developed under the postural management programme so far. The majority of studies related to this field are conducted on not very numerous groups, with short periods of observations only. Thence it is difficult to assess the effectiveness of the postural management programme, although some study results indicate it as the promising method of neurogenic hip dislocation prevention. Appropriate postural support is deemed to facilitate CP patients’ activity and participation, improve their sense of competency and motivate them to act. Due to changes in equipment designs and new solutions launched, there is an urgent need to continue related research.

Key words:
postural managment, cerebral palsy

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