Year: 2025 | Month: July | Volume: 15 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 109-120
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20250713
Comparing Trunk Stabilization Exercises with and without BOSU Ball for Balance and Gross Motor Functions in Children with Spastic Diplegia: Randomized Control Trial
Megha Rana1, Dr. Stuti Khanna2, Dr. Garima Wadhwa3, Dr. Shefali Walia4
1MPT Neuro, Indian spinal Injuries Center -Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, New Delhi,
2Associate professor, Indian spinal Injuries Center – Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, New Delhi.
3Assistant professor, Indian spinal Injuries Center–Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, New Delhi.
4Associate Professor, Gurugram University, Gurugram, Haryana
Corresponding Author: Megha Rana
ABSTRACT
Background and Purpose: Spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (SDCP) mainly affects the lower limbs and is associated with trunk weakness, reduced balance and difficulties in carrying out activities of daily living. Trunk stabilization exercises enhance muscle strength and postural control. Performing these exercises on unstable surfaces like BOSU ball may develop neuromuscular demands and trunk control. This study aimed to compare the effects of trunk stabilization exercises with and without a BOSU ball on balance and gross motor functions in children with SDCP.
Methods: 20 subjects with SDCP were recruited based on the inclusion and the exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned into two groups. Group A (n=10) received trunk stabilization exercises on BOSU ball, while Group B (n=10) received the same exercises on a mat. Both groups underwent intervention 4 times a week for 4 weeks. Pre and post intervention assessments were done using Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Gross Motor Functions Measure-88 (GMFM-88), and Wee FIM as outcome measures.
Results: Group A showed a statistically significant improvement in PBS scores (p<0.004*) and in GMFM-88 domains C, E, and total scores (p<0.030*) compared to Group B. No significant difference was observed in GMFM domain D (p>0.09) or in WeeFIM scores between the groups.
Conclusion: Trunk stabilization exercises on a BOSU ball were better in improving balance and specific gross motor functions, like sitting and walking, when compared with exercises done without it. However, both methods were equally effective for standing and performing daily functional tasks.
Key words: Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy, Trunk Stabilization Exercises, BOSU ball, Gross motor functions, Balance, Activity of Daily Living.