David Porter, Kathrin Schindler, Janet Cockburn
Oxford Brooke’s University, Oxford, UK

Background
It is thought that stable posture is essential to allow good attention particularly in children with cerebral palsy (CP). However, there is no evidence that changes in postural stability will affect attentional performance.

Aim
To establish whether support to provide postural stability has an effect on the performance of attention tasks in children with Cerebral Palsy.

Methodology
A randomised cross-over study was carried out. Intervention involved three levels of postural support: (1) basic; (2) stabilised pelvis; and (3) stabilised pelvis and trunk. The primary outcome was the alertness subtest from the TAP (Test for Attentional Performance) validated battery of tests. Speed and accuracy when playing a game of snap was also measured and participants were asked which level of support they preferred.

Participants were 6-15 years old; at level 4-5 on the gross motor function classification system for CP; had a Chailey sitting ability level 2-5; used postural support inserts in their wheelchair; and could understand/respond to reaction tasks. The target sample size was 30.

Results
To date 15 participants have been seen and preliminary findings suggest an improvement in attentional performance with increased postural support. All but one of the participants seen to date preferred the third level of support when carrying out the tests.

Learning Objectives
The learning objective is to establish whether there is evidence that attentional performance is influenced by postural support, which will help when deciding whether to use supportive seating in the school/other settings.