Functional Trunk Training in Ataxia Patients

The Effect of Functional Trunk Training on Trunk Control and Upper Extremity Functions in Hereditary Ataxia Patients With Autosomal Recessive

The study is to examine the effect of functional trunk training on trunk control and upper extremity functions in patients with autosomal recessive ataxia.

Hereditary ataxias are a group of genetic diseases characterized by slow progressive gait disturbance. In addition, coordination disorders can be seen in extremities, speech and eye movements. Atrophy is common in the cerebellum. Friedreich's ataxia, ataxia telangiectasia, ataxia with vitamin E deficiency, infantile-onset spinocerebellar atrophy and Marinesco-Sjögren syndrome are autosomal recessive hereditary ataxias. The constant main sign of autosomal recessive ataxia is progressive ataxia. The trunk has an important role on dynamic stabilization for postural reactions and limb movements. A good trunk support enables movements in other parts of the body to occur more regularly. Trunk stabilization is important to support upper and lower extremity movements, to meet the loads, and to protect the spinal cord. The relationship between upper extremity function, daily living activities and trunk functions has been emphasized in many studies but comparative studies about the rehabilitation were very less. This study is to evaluate the effect o functional trunk training in patients with autosomal recessive ataxia.

The therapy program was planned for 8 weeks and the sessions were performed in 45 minutes (min) for 3 days a week. The functional reach (forward-lateral-cross), trunk rotation exercises were performed in the sitting positions.(25min) Facilitation of trunk extension and elongation in the prone position (10 min). Thoracic mobilization on exercise ball (10min).

The therapy program was planned for 8 weeks and the sessions were performed in 45 minutes (min) for 3 days a week. The strengthening exercises were applied on the mat (3x10 for the first 4 weeks and 3x15 repetition for the last 4 weeks). Eyes open-closed perturbation training was performed for trunk control in sitting and standing positions (10 min.).

The Trunk Disorder Scale (TIS) was used to assess static and dynamic sitting balance and trunk coordination

Inclusion Criteria: Without any communication impairment (seeing, hearing, hearing), Have not had surgery for the upper and lower extremities in the last 6 months, Between the ages of 5 and 18, The mental level determined by the pediatrician is sufficient, Exclusion Criteria: Patients who want to leave the study at any stage of the study Patients who do not attend regular training

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