Effect of Vestibular Rehabilitation on Postural Sway and Energy Expenditure in Children With Spastic Diplegia

Cerebral palsy leads to postural asymmetries and balance impairments, primarily due to central vestibular dysfunction. Children aged 7-12 with gross motor function classification system levels I-III exhibit poor visual and vestibular interactions, impacting their ability to resolve sensory conflicts and manage reflexes. Excessive lateral trunk lean in cerebral palsy, prevalent in 72% of affected children, increases locomotion costs. Energy expenditure during walking rises with declining motor function, particularly in spastic cerebral palsy where vestibular dysfunction affects nearly 48% of cases. The relationship between balance control efforts and metabolic energy expenditure is complex, especially during dynamic activities like walking. This study will assess the impact of vestibular rehabilitation on postural sway and energy expenditure in children with spastic cerebral palsy, aiming to elucidate their interrelationship.