Reciprocal Electrical Stimulation and Postural Stability in Diplegic Children

Background: equines deformity affected diplegic children functional balance and posture stability. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of reciprocal electrical stimulation on dorsi and planter flexors of both sides simultaneously and to determine its effect on functional balance and postural stability after tendon Achilles tenotomy. Thirty spastic diplegic children, ranged in age from four to six years old, were randomly assigned into two matched groups (control and study), the control group received the selected physical program while, the study group received reciprocal electrical stimulation in addition to the selected physical therapy program. All children received the treatment for two hours, three times weekly for three successive months. Balance and postural stability index were assessed for both groups pre and post treatment using Berg's balance scale and Biodex Balance system. The result of the study showed significant improvement in all measured variables for both groups in favor for study group. It could be concluded that reciprocal electrical stimulation for dorsi and planter flexors muscles after tendon achilles tenotomy is safe and effective method of treatment, it improved balance and postural stability in spastic diplegic children.