Motor Imagery and Functional Performance in Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

Investigation of the Relationship Between Motor Imagery Ability and Functional Mobility, Walking, and Balance in Children With Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

The main purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between motor imagery capacity and functional mobility, walking and balance in children with diplegic type cerebral palsy.

This study will be conducted using a cross-sectional and correlational screening model to examine the relationship between motor imagery ability and functional mobility, walking, and balance in children with diplegic cerebral palsy. Data collection will be conducted through one-on-one assessments after obtaining written consent from volunteer participants and their families. The data collection tools used in the study are listed below: Demographic Information Form, Motor Imagery Ability Assessment, Mental Stopwatch Paradigm, Functional Mobility, and Gait Assessment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with diplegic CP by a neurologist or pediatric neurologist
• Being between 5 and 18 years of age
• Being between levels I and III on the GMFCS
• Having the cognitive ability to follow the assessment instructions
• Informed consent form has been obtained from the child's family
• The child has agreed to participate voluntarily in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having severe impairments in basic sensory systems such as vision or hearing
• Having additional diagnoses such as epilepsy or autism spectrum disorder
• Demonstrating cognitive or behavioral problems that prevent them from following instructions during the assessment
• Having informed consent from the child's family or the child