EFFECTS OF MAT ACTIVITIES ON BALANCE AND SPASTICITY IN SPASTIC CEREBRAL PALSY CHILDREN.

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that primarily affects motor function due to brain damage sustained during early development. Spastic cerebral palsy, characterized by muscle stiffness and difficulty with motor coordination, is the most common form. Children with spastic CP face challenges related to balance and spasticity, which significantly impact their quality of life and functional independence. This manuscript explores the effects of Mat Activities Therapy (MAT) on balance and spasticity in children with spastic cerebral palsy. MAT interventions have been shown to influence neuromuscular control, postural alignment, and movement coordination, which may offer therapeutic benefits for improving balance and reducing spasticity. This paper presents findings from systematic reviews and meta-analyses to examine the impact of MAT activities on these outcomes. The findings support MAT as a potential treatment for improving functional motor outcomes in children with CP. These studies emphasize MAT's role in promoting postural control, increasing balance, and reducing spasticity, ultimately enhancing functional mobility in children with spastic CP [1-13].

Aim: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Mat Activities on balance and spasticity in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

Subjects and Methods: A total of 30 children diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy (SCP), representing both genders, participated in this study. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups: a control group (Group A) and a study group (Group B). The control group received a standard therapeutic exercise program, while the study group was exposed to MAT activities in addition to the same exercise regimen as the control group. Spasticity and trunk balance were assessed prior to each therapy session using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), respectively. These assessments were recorded as baseline measurements. After completing a therapeutic regimen consisting of two 4-week sessions and one 8-week session, post-intervention evaluations were conducted to assess changes in trunk balance and spasticity using the PBS and MAS scales.

Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in the pre- and post-intervention scores of the PBS and GMFCS groups, with p-values less than 0.05, indicating a notable improvement in balance and functional motor capabilities in the study group

Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the efficacy of Mat Activities in improving trunk balance and functional motor outcomes as measured by the PBS and GMFCS scales. However, the MAS readings demonstrated limited effectiveness in modifying lower limb spasticity, suggesting that while MAT activities may contribute to functional improvements, their impact on spasticity management may be less pronounced.