Poor trunk control is a **very common problem in children with cerebral palsy (CP)**, particularly spastic CP, and significantly impacts sitting balance, mobility, and overall motor function.
### Key Facts About Trunk Control in CP
| Aspect | Details |
|--------|---------|
| **Prevalence** | Impaired in children with CP to varying extents, depending on motor impairment severity and topography
| **Main Causes** | Decreased range of motion, contractures, and disordered trunk muscle activity
| **Impact** | Affects sitting balance, gross motor function, and functional performance (GMFCS classification)
| **Proprioception Link** | Children with better trunk position sense (proprioception) have better trunk control
### Treatment Approaches
- **Proprioceptive training** of the trunk enhances motor control
- **Dynamic surface exercise training** (6 weeks + standard physiotherapy) improves trunk control and gross motor function
- **Trunk exercises** benefit trunk control, balance, and mobility
- **Bobath therapy** and intensive focused treatment are recommended
- **Trunk belts** can support function in children with diplegia
Poor trunk control requires **intensive, targeted attention** as it underlies many functional limitations in CP. Physical therapy focused on trunk stability is essential for improving overall motor performance.
