Correlation of Skin Folds Measurements and Selective Motor Control of Lower Extremity in Children with Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a significant neurological disorder affecting movement and coordination. Spastic diplegic CP, a common subtype, presents unique challenges in motor control and balance. Understanding the interplay between selective motor control, body composition, and motor functions is crucial for effective therapeutic approaches. Objective: The study aimed to explore the correlations between selective motor control, skinfold measurements, and their impact on balance and gross motor function in children with spastic diplegic CP. Methods: Employing a cross-sectional survey design, this study involved 31 children with spastic diplegic CP. Selective motor control was assessed using the SCALE tool, while skinfold measurements were taken at the iliac crest, mid-thigh, and mid-calf. The Pediatric Balance Scale and GMFM-66 were used for evaluating balance and gross motor function, respectively. Statistical analysis involved Pearson Correlation and chi-square tests. Results: Significant positive correlations were found between balance and selective motor control of the right limb (Pearson Correlation .738, p<.001) and left limb (Pearson Correlation .621, p<.001). Gender-based differences in selective motor control were non-significant. Skinfold measurements varied, with the mid-thigh region showing the maximum fat accumulation, but they demonstrated no significant correlation with balance (Pearson Correlation range -.043 to .191, p>.05) or gross motor function (Pearson Correlation range -.366 to .143, p>.05). The correlation between selective motor control and gross motor function was also non-significant (Pearson Correlation range -.162 to .046, p>.05). Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of balance and motor control in managing spastic diplegic CP. The absence of a significant correlation between skinfold measurements and motor functions suggests that physical body composition may not directly influence motor abilities in CP. These findings call for further research, potentially with a more diverse sample, to develop nuanced, effective therapies for CP.