Preventing deformities in paediatric cerebral palsy in poorly-resourced areas: A scoping review

Background: Managing children with cerebral palsy (CP) in poorly-resourced contexts, especially those with greater functional limitations, is challenging. Unmitigated orthopaedic complications can further restrict already compromised functional capacity. Where rehabilitation skills and knowledge are scarce, primary healthcare worker- and caregiver-implemented routines are warranted. The essential elements of a home-based routine to mitigate musculoskeletal (MSK) complications in children with severe CP in resource-limited settings (RLSs) have not been determined. Objectives: To summarise the evidence for programmes and interventions that mitigate MSK complications in children with severe CP and make recommendations for a programme suited to RLSs. Method: Scientific databases and professional websites were searched for studies and reports describing guidelines, interventions or programmes for children aged 0–18 years with severe, partially- or non-ambulant CP, that included aims for the prevention of MSK complications. Articles reporting on surgical, pharmacological and advanced or expensive technological interventions were excluded. Results: A total of 57 studies or reports were included in the review. Low-grade evidence exists for 24-hour postural management (24-h PM), supported standing, sustained stretching and splinting to mitigate MSK complications in children with CP. Caregiver training and support, and integration of the programme into daily routines were identified as important components for successful implementation. Conclusion: Clinical guidelines and evidence that support caregiver-delivered interventions to reduce MSK complications in children with severe CP are limited, and only weak recommendations can be made. Clinical implications: There is a need for context-specific, home-based intervention programmes to prevent MSK complications in children with CP in RLSs.