Plyometric vs Resistance Training for Trunk Balance in Children With Spina Bifida

Okan University28 enrolled

Overview

Objective: To compare the efficacy of upper extremity plyometric and resistance exercises in improving trunk balance in children with Spina Bifida (SB). Methods: This randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 28 children (aged 6-12 years) with lumbar-level SB, randomized to plyometric (n=14) or resistance (n=14) exercise groups for an 8-week intervention (3 days/week) alongside standard rehabilitation. Primary outcomes included Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS) for static/dynamic sitting and reaching, and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) for overall balance. Secondary outcomes included ambulation levels via Hoffer classification.

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of upper extremity plyometric versus resistance exercises in enhancing trunk balance among children with lumbar-level Spina Bifida (SB). Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 28 children (aged 6-12 years) diagnosed with lumbar-level SB. Participants were randomly assigned to either a plyometric exercise group (n = 14) or a resistance exercise group (n = 14). Both groups received an 8-week intervention (three sessions per week) in addition to their standard rehabilitation programs. Primary outcomes were assessed using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS)-evaluating static sitting, dynamic sitting, and reaching control-and the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) to assess overall balance capabilities. Secondary outcomes included ambulation status, measured using the Hoffer classification.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Spina Bifida

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 6 YearsMax age: 15 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * The study included children diagnosed with lumbar-level Spina Bifida, * Aged 6 to 15 years, * IQ of 50 or higher based on the SPARCLE cognitive assessment Exclusion Criteria: * History of shunt infection or revision, * Tethered cord syndrome or syringomyelia, * Insufficient sitting balance, * Upper extremity spasticity or contractures, * Severe visual or hearing impairments

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS)

It measures both static and dynamic trunk control, including selective motor control and dynamic reaching abilities. The total TCMS score ranges from 0 to 58 points. Higher scores on the TCMS indicate better trunk control and function.

Time frame: Day 1, right before starting treatment and right after finishing the treatment (4 weeks). using questionary scores

Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS)

It is a reliable and valid clinical tool designed to assess functional balance in children aged 5 to 15 years with mild to moderate balance impairments. It is a modified version of the Berg Balance Scale tailored specifically for pediatric use, focusing on balance performance during daily functional tasks. The PBS consists of 14 items, each scored on a 5-point scale from 0 to 4: The total PBS score ranges from 0 to 56 points (14 items x 4 points each). Higher scores indicate better functional balance and motor performance.

Time frame: Day 1, right before starting treatment and right after finishing the treatment (4 weeks). using questionarry scores