The effect of six weeks selected physical training on balance, postural control and lower limb function in children with Meningomyelocele

Meningomyelocele after cerebral palsy is the most common congenital defects of the nervous system that impairs the functioning of many body’s structures. This study aimed to assess the effect of six weeks selected physical training on balance, postural control and lower limb function in children with Meningomyelocele. In this quasi-experimental study, 10 boys aged 10-11 years with Meningomyelocele in L4-L5 levels that independently able to stand and take at least 5 steps were selected and after obtaining written consent from the parents, placed in an experimental group. Before and after 6 weeks (four 60-minute sessions per week) participation in a researcher-designed exercise protocol, Static and dynamic balance (Balance Scale PBS), postural sway (foot pressure device), neck craniovertebral angle and knee and hip range of motion (goniometer), thoracic arch angle (flexible ruler) and trunk and knee extensors strength (dynamometer) were measured. Data by t-test in SPSS 22 software was analyzed (p≤0/05). The results were showed significant difference between pre-test and post-test in all variables except the total index of postural control and trunk extensors strength (P≥0/05). Due to the effectiveness of the used exercise protocol, this protocol can be used to improve the postural control, balance and lower extremity function in rehabilitation of patients with Meningomyelocele and similar to those.