Modified desk height helps children with cerebral palsy perform sit-to-stand

Aim:Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have difficulties performing activities that require the use of fundamental motor skills such as sit-to-stand (STS). In this study, we used a height adjustable chair and desk to investigate the role of desk support in STS and how it might benefit children with CP. Methods:Seventeen typically developing children (TDC), average age = 9.7 years, and 28 children with CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] I and II), average age = 10.3 years, participated in the test. Elapsed time and body sway were measured using a pressure mat and load cell while each child performed a STS task. Two different desk heights were tested for time consumption and sway under the condition of hands-on-desk and arms-crossed. Results:We found that the elapsed time of hands-on-desk with the elbow flexion height was the shortest (p < 0.05). Sway amount was also significantly reduced for all children when they used the table for STS (p < 0.05). Conclusion:Results of this study may be a useful reference in rehabilitation training and designing a desk height beneficial for children with CP. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Better performance of sit-to-stand for a child with cerebral palsy could be made by a desk support Elapsed time during preparation period for sit-to-stand could be reduced by desk support for all CP children Sway amount during sit-to-stand could be reduced by desk support, especially for the CP children with GMFCS level II Desk height is an important parameter and should be studied in detail

Automated summary

In this study, the role of desk support in sit-to-stand (STS) was investigated in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The results showed that using a desk for support improved performance and reduced sway in children with CP during STS. This has implications for rehabilitation training and desk design.