Sensory Processing, Postural Stability, and Selective Motor Control in Children With Hemiplegia

Sensory Processing Abilities in Relation to Postural Stability and Selective Motor Control in Children With Hemiplegia.

The goal of this observational case-control study is to examine the relationship between sensory processing abilities, postural stability, and selective motor control (SMC) in children aged 6-10 years with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP). The study compares outcomes in children with hemiplegic CP to age-matched typically developing children (TDC). It aims to determine how differences in sensory processing may relate to motor control and balance deficits in this population.

This study investigated the associations between sensory processing abilities, postural stability, and selective voluntary motor control (SVMC) in children diagnosed with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP), and compared these findings to age-matched typically developing children (TDC). Thirty children with hemiplegic CP and thirty TDC aged 6-10 years were recruited based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Children with CP were selected from the outpatient clinic at the Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University.

The study used validated clinical tools: the Child Sensory Profile 2 (SP2) to assess sensory processing abilities across multiple sensory systems and behavioral domains; the HUMAC balance system to evaluate postural stability through modified clinical tests of sensory integration, center of pressure testing, and limits of stability assessments; the Test of Arm Selective Control (TASC) and the Selective Control Assessment of the Lower Extremity (SCALE) to evaluate upper and lower limb SVMC, respectively.

All participants were assessed in a controlled clinical setting, and statistical comparisons were made between the two groups. The study also examined the correlations between sensory profile data and motor/postural outcomes. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all caregivers. The results are intended to provide insights into the interaction between sensory processing and motor control deficits in children with hemiplegia and to support clinicians in tailoring interventions based on sensory-motor integration profiles.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy
• Age between 6 and 10 years
• GMFCS levels I or II
• Modified Ashworth Scale score of 1 or 1+ (mild spasticity)
• Ability to follow simple instructions
• Caregiver with sufficient English language proficiency

Exclusion Criteria:

• Botulinum toxin injections within the past 6 months
• Visual or auditory impairments
• Orthopedic or neurosurgical intervention to limbs or spine
• Musculoskeletal deformities
• History of seizures