Motor and sensory dysfunctions in children with mental retardation and epilepsy

The aim of this study was to assess motor and sensory functions in a population-based series of 88 mentally retarded children with epilepsy. A new standardized physiotherapy protocol was developed for the heterogeneous population of children with epilepsy; the Cailler-Azusa scale was also found to be useful. For children with cerebral palsy, the gross motor function measure was used. Sensorimotor impairments, resulting in disabilities and handicap, were found to be very common but often overlooked and neglected. Sensorimotor dysfunctions need to be identified in order to provide rational training, understanding and care to children with epilepsy and mental retardation.