Relationship between hand functions and balance in cerebral palsied children

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study was planned to examine the relationship between hand function and balance in Cerebral Palsied Children (CPC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 15 diparetic or hemiparetic CPC, ages between 5?15, were included in the study. They were at Level I, II or III according to Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), and we applied Neurodevelopmental Therapy(NDT) them. Intensive NDT program were applied 8 weeks. Evaluations were repeated before and after treatment. RESULTS: There were improvements in hand functions and balance skills. After treatment both MACS and balance tests’ scores changed in percentages. Thus hand functions and balance skills were correlated. But these correlations were not statistically significant. DISCUSSION: Hand functions have a relationship with balance. Better hand functions make the CPC set balance better by providing a good upper extremity functions. Good upper extremity functions provide better balance reactions. CPC could be able to set his/her balance by moving upper extremities.