Evaluating Upper Extremity Selective Motor Control and Its Relationship with Trunk Control and Balance in Spastic CP

Abstract

Upper extremity Selective Voluntary Motor Control (SVMC) is a key factor influencing upper extremity functions in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP), but differences in SVMC of the upper extremity between unilateral and bilateral CP and its association with trunk control and balance remain unclear. This study aims to examine differences in upper extremity SVMC and its association with trunk control and balance in 58 children (31 unilateral, 27 bilateral) with spastic CP. SVMC, balance, and trunk control were assessed using the Selective Control of Upper Extremity Scale (SCUES). Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), and the Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), respectively. No significant difference in SCUES scores was found between unilateral and bilateral CP (p > 0.05). SCUES scores correlated with TCMS in both types (p < 0.05), with a stronger correlation in bilateral CP (unilateral rho = 0.38, bilateral rho = 0.87). PBS correlated with SCUES only in bilateral cases (p < 0.01, rho = 0.88). In conclusion, impaired upper extremity SVMC is common in spastic CP and more linked to trunk control and balance in bilateral than unilateral cases. Addressing this difference may guide the development of tailored interventions for both types.