Diaphragmatic excursion and pulmonary function in children with cerebral palsy – comparative study

Abstract

Introduction. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common paediatric disorder occurring in about 2 to 2.5 per 1000 live births. Studies have reported that children with cerebral palsy have a high incidence of respiratory problems, with limited evidence regarding diaphragmatic impairment. Thus, the study aims to analyse and compare the diaphragmatic excursion and pulmonary function in children with CP compared to typically developing children. Methods. The sample size was calculated as 38, divided into groups of typically developed children (19) and spastic CP children (16). An experienced radiologist assessed the diaphragmatic excursion. The respiratory parameters were assessed using a portable Pulmonary Function Test machine. Results. A positive significance was seen in the pulmonary function test values (p = 0.00) and diaphragmatic excursion (p = 0.00), showing better values among the typically developed children than the CP group. Conclusions. The study concludes that children with CP have a reduction in diaphragm excursion and poorer pulmonary values than typically developing children, making them prone to respiratory diseases, thus requiring early intervention.