Exploring Balance and Functional Mobility in Children with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy, Effects of Cognitive and Motor Dual-Tasks: An Exploratory Pilot Study.

Aims: This pilot study aimed to assess the dual-task performance and balance ability in children and adolescents with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME). Additionally, it sought to investigate the impact of dual-task conditions on functional performance and explore relationship between balance ability and dual-task performance.

Methods: Ten children and adolescents with JME (mean age 16.90 ± 1.20 years) were evaluated. Static and dynamic balance were assessed using the Balance Master System, with modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB) and Limit of Stability tests measuring static and dynamic balance, respectively. The mCTSIB and TUG tests were performed under single- and dual-task (motor-motor, cognitive-motor) conditions.

Results: No significant differences were found in mCTSIB test between single-task and dual-task conditions (p > 0.05). However, TUG completion time increased under cognitive-motor dual-task conditions (p < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between balance and dual-task performance (p > 0.05).

Conclusions: This exploratory pilot study, conducted without a control group, suggests that children with JME may face difficulties with tasks requiring both cognitive and motor functions, as cognitive-motor dual tasks significantly increased task completion time. Lower scores in certain balance measures suggest a potential risk of balance impairment. These findings underscore the importance of integrating both cognitive-motor dual-task and balance assessments into rehabilitation programs for children with JME.