Effects of lateral electrical surface stimulation on scoliosis in children with severe cerebral palsy: a pilot study

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of lateral electrical surface stimulation (LESS) on scoliosis and trunk balance in children with severe cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Children with severe CP (GMFCS level IV or V) and stationary or progressive scoliosis were enrolled. Children were recommended of two sessions of LESS/day, 1 h/session, for 3 months at home: at 40–80 mA intensity, 200 μs pulse width, 25 Hz frequency, on for 6 s and then off for 6 s on the convex side of the trunk curve. Radiologic (Cobb’s, kyphotic, and sacral angles) and functional [gross motor function measurement (GMFM)-88 sitting score, and trunk control measurement scale (TCMS)] measurements were evaluated at 4 periods: (a) 3 months before, (b) just before, (c) 1 month after, and (d) 3 months after LESS.

Results: The median Cobb’s angle of 11 children (median age, 9 years) was 25°, and it showed significant improvements after both 1 and 3 months of LESS. The LESS intensity correlated with the improvement of GMFM-88 siting score. The parents or main caregivers of the children believed LESS had several positive effects without major adverse effects.

Conclusions: LESS is effective in scoliosis in children with severe CP and it may improve trunk balance.

Implications for rehabilitation

• Scoliosis is a very complicated problem for the children with severe CP.

• They do not have many options for treatments and scoliosis is usually refractory.

• Lateral electrical surface stimulation (LESS) is effective in scoliosis in children with severe CP and it may improve trunk balance.

• LESS may be another option of managing stationary or progressive scoliosis in the children with severe CP who are unable to undergo surgery.

Keywords:

• Cerebral palsy
• electrical stimulation
• postural balance
• scoliosis

Disclosure statement

The authors report no declarations of interest.