Preferred posture in lying and its association with scoliosis and windswept hips in adults with cerebral palsy.

Objective

The aim of this study was to clarify the association of scoliosis and windswept hips with immobility, lying position, and time in lying, in adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 830 adults (469 males and 361 females) with a diagnosis of CP, 16-73 years, and classified at levels I-V according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Subjects' Gross motor function classification system level, presence and severity of scoliosis, hip and knee joint range of movement, lying position, postural ability in lying, and time in lying were used to identify connections between them.

Results

Adults who are immobile in the lying position have higher odds of both scoliosis and windswept hips. Spending more than 8 h daily in the same lying position, increased the odds of having scoliosis, while lying solely in a supine position, resulted in higher odds of windswept hips.

Conclusions

The "preferred" habitual posture frequently observed in immobile adults with CP, leads to established distortion of their body shape. The results indicate the need for early introduction of appropriate posture control, in immobile individuals with CP, from a young age.Implications for rehabilitationThe preferred posture, observed in immobile adults with cerebral palsy, leads to a distortion of their body shape.One in four adults with cerebral palsy use only one position when in bed.The results indicate the need for early introduction of appropriate posture control in individuals unable to change position.