Relati̇onshi̇p between sensory profi̇le, balance, and trunk control i̇n chi̇ldren wi̇th cerebral palsy

Aim Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects sensory processing, balance, and trunk control. This study aimed to examine in detail the relationship between sensory profiles, balance, and trunk control in children with quadriparetic CP, in order to provide evidence for integrating sensory-targeted strategies into rehabilitation. Method The study included 32 children diagnosed with spastic quadriparesis. Sensory processing was assessed using the Dunn Sensory Profile, balance was evaluated with the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), and trunk control was measured using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS). Results A total of 32 children were assessed. Sensory processing disorders were identified in 81.5 % of the assessed parameters. Balance scores showed significant positive correlations with vestibular processing (p = 0.014, r = 0.429), proprioception (p = 0.017, r = 0.417), endurance and tone regulation (p = 0.036, r = 0.372), sensitivity to stimuli (p = 0.011, r = 0.444), and sensory seeking (p = 0.039, r = 0.366). Similarly, trunk control was positively correlated with stimuli perception (p = 0.014, r = 0.430), vestibular processing (p = 0.034, r = 0.377), oral sensory processing (p = 0.008, r = 0.463), and sensitivity to stimuli (p = 0.039, r = 0.367). Conclusion Difficulties in sensory processing, particularly in the vestibular, proprioceptive, somatosensory, and oral domains, were associated with impairments in balance and trunk control. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating sensory profiles in children with CP and support the inclusion of sensory-focused assessments and interventions in rehabilitation programs to improve motor and functional outcomes.