Article

PURPOSE: To investigate the feasibility of using pressure mapping for the
characterisation of the seated posture of children with cerebral palsy (CP).
METHOD: Analysis of pressure mapping readings and video of children seated in a
seating system during two assessments: The first assessment involved the pressure
mapping of non-disabled children during a standardised protocol, and the second
one involved the pressure mapping of children with CP performing daily life
activities. RESULTS: It was possible to detect periods of activity of the
children from pressure readings using the mean variation of pressure.
Additionally, several parameters stemming from pressure readings were shown to be
successful in assessing the posture of the children. The centre of pressure when
positioned relative to the ischial tuberosities, allowed for recognition of
'adverse postures' involving pelvic obliquity/medio-lateral trunk flexion or
antero-posterior pelvic tilt/ trunk flexion-extension, as deviations from the
centre point. The angle between the principal axis of the sensors' pressure and
the medio-lateral axis of the seat was also proposed to characterise pelvic
transverse rotation but could not be tested with the actual protocol.
CONCLUSIONS: Pressure monitoring can be used to assess qualitatively and
quantitatively sitting posture of children with CP.

Langue : ANGLAIS