Development of a Symmetry Score for Infantile Postural and Movement Asymmetries: Preliminary Results of a Pilot Study

Abstract

The reliable and valid 4-item symmetry score served for the diagnosis, evaluation, and follow-up of infants aged 3 to 6 months with infantile postural and movement asymmetries. The results of a pilot study showed the positive effect of a single manual medical treatment session along with a home program focusing on "tummy time."

Effects of Single Manual Medicine Treatment for Infants with Postural and Movement Asymmetries and Positional Preference: A Multicentre Randomised Controlled Trial – SMMT for IPMA

“…The primary target parameter was the change of the Symmetry-Score. The assessment of the symmetry course was based on a standardized video-based overall score of the metric items head rotation in supine position, frontal labyrinth position reaction, head elevation in prone position (1-5 points each) and the muscular tone difference of the hip rotation (yes/no, 1-2 points) [34]. This resulted in a total score of four points (very symmetric) to 17 points (very asymmetric).…”

“…By this point, the neurophysiological basis of this proprioceptive musculoskeletal coordination disorder has been analyzed and first evidence-based study results of a monocentre study have been published [34,35]. In a second step, a larger multicentre study population has now been used to investigate the effectiveness of a single manual medicine treatment (SMMT).…”

“…They are summarized in the appendix. The investigators have been intensively trained in the use of the 4-ISS [34].…”

“…Unauthorized distribution is strictly prohibited. rotation in supine position, frontal labyrinth position reaction, head elevation in prone position (1-5 points each) and the muscular tone difference of the hip rotation (yes/no, 1-2 points) [34]. This resulted in a total score of four points (very symmetric) to 17 points (very asymmetric).…”

“…For the comparison of the study populations in the four study centres, a sample of 50 children per centre was assumed. The sample size calculation was based on the statistical calculations of the pilot study [34]. The number of cases determined according to these calculations (α = 0.05 and 1−β = 0.9) is 21 This document was downloaded for personal use only.…”