How Does Standing Anteroposterior Stability Limits Correlate to Foot/ankle Functions in Bilateral Spastic Cerebral Palsy?

Abstract

Purpose: To determine whether foot and ankle functions are correlated with the limits of stability (LoS) while standing in individuals with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP). Methods: Eighteen people who could walk and with BSCP and 18 people without disability participated. Anteroposterior LoS was measured using a force platform. To quantify ankle and foot functions, spasticity, isometric muscle strength, passive range of motion, and plantar light touch-pressure sensation were assessed. Results: In the BSCP group, anteroposterior LoS was significantly decreased, and anterior LoS reduction was correlated with decreases in plantar flexor and toe flexor strength and in sensitivity of the forefoot to light touch-pressure sensation, whereas the posterior LoS reduction was correlated with reduced dorsiflexor strength. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that improvement in these foot and ankle functions in BSCP may increase LoS while standing.