Efficacy of Pilates Training on Balance in Spastic Cerebral Palsy Children: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Impaired postural and reactive balance control is a substantial challenge for children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Evidence states that Pilates Training (PT) increases strength, endurance and flexibility of the trunk and abdominals, and demonstrates improvement in the deep core muscles which helps body’s ability to relax and improve balance in Spastic Cerebral palsy (SCP) children. Aim: To measure the efficacy of PT on improving balance in SCP children. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental pilot study with convenient sampling was conducted for 2 weeks, from March 6, 2024 to March 21, 2024 in Xcell Physiocare, Greater Kailash-I, New Delhi, India among children aged between 5 to 9 years, who were able to understand Hindi and English, with spasticity ranging from 1 to 1+ (Modified Ashworth Scale), level 3 and 4 (Gross Motor Function Classification System) and normal flexibility of lower back muscle. They received 10 minutes of stretching, followed by 45 minutes of PT, 10 repetition each, 4 times a week for 2 weeks. The measurement was performed at baseline and post-treatment using Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), modified Timed Up and Go (mTUG). Data was analysed using Wilcoxon’s Signed-rank test. Results: The measured variables before and after therapy showed a significant improvement (p<0.05) in both PBS and mTUG. Conclusion: PT is an effective treatment program for improving balance in SCP children.