Effect of Electrical Stimulation of Abdominal and Back Muscles on Balance in Children with Spastic Diplegia

Abstract
Background: Spastic diplegia is one of the most common clinical subtypes of cerebral palsy regardless of birth weight and gestation. It is used when there is motor impairment in the upper extremities as well as the lower extremities, although it is milder in the upper extremities than the lower one. Children with spastic diplegia may exhibit clumsiness and frequent falls during regular motor activities or may not be able to maintain standing position independently.
Aim of the Study: The purpose of this study was to inves-tigate the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation of abdominal and back muscles on balance in spastic diplegic children.
Material and Methods: Thirty children with spastic diple-gic CP of both sexes were selected, ranging in age from 4 to 8 years. They were classified randomly into two groups of equal number (A & B). Evaluation of children balance was performed before and after 6 weeks of treatment using Biodex stability system. Group (A) received traditional physical therapy program based on neurodevelopmental approach used for rehabilitation of such patients and Group (B) received the same traditional physical therapy program applied on Group (A) in addition to 30min neuromuscular electrical stimulation of abdominal and back muscles.
Results: No significant difference in Overall Dynamic Stability Index, Antero/Posterior Stability Index and, Medio/ Lateral Stability Index (ODSI, APSI, and MLSI) was recorded between the two groups before treatment, significant improve-ment was recorded in ODSI, APSI, and MLSI in each group after treatment. Significant differences in ODSI, APSI, and MLSI were recorded between the two groups after treatment in favor of Group (B).
Conclusion: From the obtained results of this study, supported by the relevant literature it can be concluded that neuromuscular electrical stimulation of abdominal and back muscles can be added to the physical therapy program to improve the balance in spastic diplegic children.