Effect of Adaptive Seating Systems on Postural Control and Activity Performance: A Systematic Review

Purpose: To systematically review the effectiveness of adaptive seating systems on sitting posture, postural control, and seated activity performance in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Summary of Key Points: From 5 databases, 3 of 21 (14%) articles were of good quality based on the Downs and Black checklist. Commercial modular contoured seating and paper-based low-cost, and contoured foam seating were effective at improving sitting posture, postural control, and seated activity performance. Parents and service providers reported that seating systems reduced stress, burden and psychosocial well-being, and quality of life in children with CP. Conclusion: Limited evidence demonstrated that adaptive seating systems were effective at improving sitting ability and postural control. Randomized controlled trials with objective outcome measures of seating performance in children with CP are needed to evaluate effectiveness. Recommendations for Clinical Practice: Adaptive seating devices are preferred by parents and therapists for children with CP; however, objective measures of seating outcomes are needed.