A 1-year-old child with cerebral palsy presents with strong trunk and limb extensor tone. Which handling position is MOST appropriate?

A 1-year-old child with cerebral palsy presents with strong trunk and limb extensor tone. Which handling position is MOST appropriate?

• A. Carrying the child over one's shoulder
• B. Keeping contact with the back of the child's head
• C. Carrying the child in a sitting position
• D. Picking the child up under the arms

Answer: (C)

Handling a child with cerebral palsy who has strong trunk and limb extensor tone calls for positions that support midline alignment and reduce gravity-driven extension. Carrying the child in a sitting position provides a stable base at the pelvis, supports the spine in a neutral or gently flexed posture, and allows the therapist to cradle the trunk and pelvis to maintain alignment. It also enables the child to use the arms for play and engagement, which helps promote better postural control in a functional position. Other options tend to place the child in more extended positions or lock the head and neck into extension, making it harder to achieve midline control and safe, stable posture. Therefore, sitting-supported carrying is the most appropriate choice.

Handling a child with cerebral palsy who has strong trunk and limb extensor tone calls for positions that support midline alignment and reduce gravity-driven extension. Carrying the child in a sitting position provides a stable base at the pelvis, supports the spine in a neutral or gently flexed posture, and allows the therapist to cradle the trunk and pelvis to maintain alignment. It also enables the child to use the arms for play and engagement, which helps promote better postural control in a functional position. Other options tend to place the child in more extended positions or lock the head and neck into extension, making it harder to achieve midline control and safe, stable posture. Therefore, sitting-supported carrying is the most appropriate choice.