Trunk control assessment tools in children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review
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Abstract
Background: Trunk control impairment is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP), which significantly affecting functional skills and activities, making its assessment crucial. Currently, various tools have been developed for evaluating trunk control in clinical settings, each with unique details and suitability. This study aids in selecting appropriate tools based on specific needs.
Objective: To systematically review the trunk control assessment tools for children with CP that are available nowadays.
Methods: Studies were identified from seven online databases and screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The final selection was categorized into: (1) focus, (2) clinical utility, (3) scale construction, and (4) characteristics of study population.
Results: Twelve studies were included, identifying three main tools: Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo), Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), and Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS). All three assessment tools, purposefully designed to assess trunk control, have different objectives and utilities. Overall reliability and validity were rated from good to excellent.
Conclusion: SATCo, TIS, and TCMS vary in focuses and clinical utilities. TIS and TCMS are suitable for children with some trunk control ability and cooperation, i.e., had the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I-III and can follow the testing commands. SATCo is applicable in children across all ability levels, including children with no trunk control or poor perception. All three tools are quick to administer, easy to access, and reliable for clinical use. Practitioners are recommended to train and test for tester reliability before clinical application.
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