Progression of Postural Asymmetry in Young Adults with Cerebral Palsy Who Are Not Walking: An Exploratory Study

Purpose: Young adults with cerebral palsy (CP) who are not walking are at risk of developing or increasing musculoskeletal asymmetries affecting the rib cage, spine, pelvis, and hips. This longitudinal study aimed to explore postural change using the Goldsmith Indices of Body Symmetry (GIofBS) over an 18-month period in adults with CP who are not walking. Methods: Demographic and medical data were accessed from participant's history. Posture was recorded using the GIofBS to collect data during an 18-month period following skeletal maturity. Results: All participants had postural asymmetry at study onset with evidence of minimal change in some GIofBS outcome measures and fluctuations in other outcomes over 18 months. Conclusions: Physical therapists may use the GIofBS across the lifespan to screen for deterioration in musculoskeletal status or in assessing longer-term outcomes of interventions impacting posture in this complex population. Video Abstract: For more insights from the authors, see Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/PPT/A314.