PREVALENCE OF BALANCE AND SENSORY IMPAIRMENTS AND THEIR CORRELATION WITH GROSS MOTOR FUNCTION IN CHILDREN WITH SPASTIC DIPLEGIC CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Background Cerebral Palsy is one of the most common causes of physical disability in children. Children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy commonly present with impairments in balance, sensory processing, and gross motor function, which affect their functional independence and quality of life. Balance and sensory impairments may significantly influence postural control, gait, and motor performance in these children. Aim To determine the prevalence of balance and sensory impairments and their correlation with gross motor function in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. Objectives 1. To assess balance impairments using the Pediatric Berg Balance Scale. 2. To evaluate sensory impairments using the Sensory Profile. 3. To assess gross motor function using the Gross Motor Function Measure and Gross Motor Function Classification System. 4. To analyze the correlation between balance, sensory impairments, and gross motor function. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted among 109 children diagnosed with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy aged between 5–12 years. Participants were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Balance was assessed using the Pediatric Berg Balance Scale, sensory impairments were evaluated using the Sensory Profile, and gross motor function was assessed using the GMFM and GMFCS. The collected data were statistically analyzed using Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation tests. Results The study demonstrated a strong positive correlation between Pediatric Berg Balance Scale scores and GMFM scores (Pearson r = 0.828, p < 0.001; Spearman rho = 0.854, p < 0.001). A very strong positive correlation was observed between Pediatric Berg Balance Scale scores and Sensory Profile scores (Pearson r = 0.955, p < 0.001; Spearman rho = 0.953, p < 0.001). Similarly, GMFM scores showed a very strong positive correlation with Sensory Profile scores (Pearson r = 0.946, p < 0.001; Spearman rho = 0.948, p < 0.001). Conclusion The study concluded that balance and sensory impairments are highly prevalent in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy and are significantly correlated with gross motor function. Better balance and sensory processing abilities were associated with improved gross motor performance. Early assessment and targeted rehabilitation focusing on balance and sensory integration may help improve functional outcomes in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy.