Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and Kinesio Taping applications in children with cerebral palsy on postural control and sitting balance

BACKGROUND: Neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), and Kinesio Taping (KT) applications are separately used to improve postural control and sitting balance in children with cerebral palsy (CP). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to examine the combined effect of NDT, NMES and KT applications on postural control and sitting balance in children with CP. METHODS: Forty five children, in 3 groups, between the ages 5-12 years were included in the study. Group 1 received NDT; group 2 received NDT + NMES; and the group 3 received NDT + NMES + KT for 6 weeks. Sitting function evaluated by the sitting section of the gross motor function measure (GMFM), and postural control assessed with the seated postural control measurement (SPCM). RESULTS: Seating section of GMFM was improved significantly in all the groups; however, increases in the group 3 were higher than groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.001). While significant differences were observed in all groups in the SPCM posture (p < 0.001), function (p < 0.001), and the total scores (p < 0.001); the change in the third group was higher according to the comparison of the three groups within each other. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of the NMES, and KT additionally to NDT improve the sitting posture, postural control, seating function, and gross motor function in children with CP.