Trunk Matters: Integrating Research to Improve Standing and Gait in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Excessive trunk movement in sagittal and frontal planes is prevalent in gait patterns in children with Cerebral Palsy. Current research indicates deviations in trunk movement increase the energy cost of walking, may cause back pain, and contribute to atypical forces on the lower extremities causing musculoskeletal impairments, leading to decreased functional activity, participation, and quality of life.

Trunk movement control over a dynamic base of support is a critical factor enabling the progression from early standing, to stepping, and to functional gait. The course presents research informed principles of competent trunk movement initiation and control for functional standing and gait.

Synthesis of didactic content, clinical videos, kinematic graphs, and interactive instructor-led labs regarding trunk kinematics, promotes the ability to recognize, analyze, and apply knowledge learned to clinical decision making. Participants will learn to use a screening tool for examination and evaluation of trunk movement in standing and gait. The tool includes an algorithm leading to an opportunity for participants to develop strategies for remediation of trunk movement to improve function for a child at any age, with any level of standing, pre-gait, or gait.

The course emphasizes examination and evaluation of trunk kinematics leading to interventions for functional standing and gait and is appropriate for physical therapists with an intermediate level of experience.