The Effects of Sitting Positions on Trunk Extension for Children with Motor Impairment

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to identify an objective, reliable and clinically useful measure for assessing changes in trunk alignment and to evaluate which of five sitting positions was the most effective in encouraging trunk extension. Fifteen children ages two to six years with a diagnosis of a neuroiogicaiiy based motor impairment and weak trunk musculature were measured using the modified Schober Measurement for spinal extension in each of five randomly ordered positions. Significant differences were noted among the five positions. The ability to quantitatively identify those positions most likely to increase function and active control of the trunk is critical knowledge in the evaluation and management of children with motor disability.