Cuevas Medek Exercises to Improve Postural Control and Balance in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Effects of Cuevas Medek Exercises on Postural Control and Balance in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

This study aims to evaluate the effects of Cuevas Medek Exercises on postural control and balance in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Children meeting the eligibility criteria will be randomly allocated into two groups receiving Cuevas Medek Exercises or conventional therapy. The outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention period to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.

Spastic cerebral palsy is a common condition characterized by impaired postural control, poor balance, and limitations in functional movement, which affect a child's ability to maintain stability during daily activities. Conventional physiotherapy is commonly used to address these impairments through strengthening, stretching, and task-based exercises, with variable functional outcomes.

Cuevas Medek Exercises is a dynamic therapeutic approach that focuses on activating automatic postural responses and balance reactions through progressively challenging activities with minimal external support. While this approach has shown potential benefits in improving motor control and postural responses, evidence comparing its effects on postural control and balance with conventional therapy in children with spastic cerebral palsy remains limited.

Therefore, a randomized controlled trial is needed to compare the effects of Cuevas Medek Exercises and conventional therapy on postural control and balance in children with spastic cerebral palsy, with the aim of providing evidence to support clinical decision-making in pediatric physiotherapy

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy
• GMFCS Level III to V
• Modified Ashworth Scale ≤ 2
• Able to follow simple commands

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive impairment
• Uncontrolled epilepsy or frequent seizures
• Visual or hearing impairment limiting treatment
• History of recent orthopedic or neurosurgical procedures
• Other neurological disorders (genetic syndromes, traumatic brain injury)
• Participation in other experimental therapies during the study period