Immediate effects of quick trunk movement exercise on sit-to-stand movement in children with spastic cerebral palsy: a pilot study.

The study included only five children, so the results are too small to generalise. The children were at GMFCS level I or II and able to perform sit-to-stand independently, so the findings do not apply to more impaired children. The study measured only immediate effects, so it does not show whether the faster sit-to-stand time lasts. The quick exercise did not significantly change trunk or ankle movement angles, so it did not show the intended effect on trunk control or abnormal movement pattern. The children were receiving regular physical therapy, and the study does not isolate the exercise effect from that therapy. The paper reports that all children received natural exercise before quick exercise after rest, and it does not state that the order was randomised.

Do not read this as proof that quick seated trunk exercise improves sit-to-stand movement in children with cerebral palsy. It shortened stand-up time immediately in a five-child pilot, but it did not change trunk or ankle movement patterns.