Stochastic Vibration as a Therapeutic Modality to Improve the Development of Sitting Posture in Children With Cerebral Palsy

2010

Reggie Harbourne

Developing controlled sitting posture is a critical motor milestone allowing for increases in attention, exploration, and perception of the environment leading to enhanced learning opportunities (Rochat & Goubat, 2000). Children with moderate to severe cerebral palsy (CP) would significantly benefit from the advancement of therapies that specifically promote the development of this skill. One such treatment, perceptual-motor therapy, was shown effective in moderating sitting posture in children with CP (Harbourne et al, 2006). Providing stochastic mechanical vibrations at the base of support has shown to improve postural performance in adults with stroke, elderly people with balance problems, and people with diabetic neuropathy (Liu et al, 2002). This experiment evaluates a combined perceptual-motor and vibration therapy approach to develop sitting posture in children with CP.

Conference presentations and posters presented

Consumers/Families, Professionals, Students

N/A