Consensus definition and assessment of trunk control in children and adolescents with neurological conditions

AIM: To establish a consensus regarding the definition of trunk control, assessment tasks, and the need for technology-based evaluation of trunk control. METHOD: Twenty-six international experts completed a 3-round online Delphi study. We collected demographic information and responses concerning the definition of trunk control, assessment tasks and their organization, and technology-based assessment requirements. Agreement was rated using a 4-point Likert scale, with consensus defined as at least 75% agreement. RESULTS: Consensus was achieved for the definition (96% agreement), the categories and subcategories (77%), 37 assessment tasks, and all but one requirement for technology-based assessment. INTERPRETATION: This study established a high level of expert consensus on the definition and assessment of trunk control in children with neurological conditions, including cerebral palsy, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. Subsequent steps involve operationalizing the tasks identified and developing a technology-based assessment of trunk control.