Sedentary Behavior: Implications for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Purpose: To review the research associated with sedentary behavior with adults and children in the general population and to discuss the application of this research for children with cerebral palsy. Summary of key points: Increased sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity are independent constructs with different definitions, physiological mechanisms, and health outcomes. The parameters of sedentary behavior developed for children with typical motor abilities may not be valid for children with cerebral palsy. Statement of conclusions: Research to identify measurement tools, health associations, and potential interventions for children with cerebral palsy is needed. Recommendations for clinical practice: Interventions to decrease sedentary behavior differ from current interventions to increase physical activity with children with cerebral palsy. Before designing interventions to decrease sedentary behavior, research is needed to determine valid definitions and measurement approaches for children with cerebral palsy, as those derived for children with typical motor development may have limited application.