The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a strength training program on physical functioning in children with CP.
ID
Source
Brief title
Condition
- Movement disorders (incl parkinsonism)
Synonym
Research involving
Sponsors and support
Intervention
Outcome measures
Primary outcome
Physical functioning is evaluated using the Gross Motor Function Measure,
functional tests, walking ability, and a mobility questionnaire.
Secondary outcome
Muscle strength of the lower limbs is tested using hand held dynamometry and
functional tests, and spasticity is determined with the spasticity test, based
on the modified Tardieu scale.
Background summary
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of movement disability in
childhood. The incidence is 1.5-2.5 per 1000 living born children and remained
stable over recent years. Children with CP experience limitations in activities
and participation, which is mainly caused by impairments in muscle function.
Not only spasticity contributes to impaired muscle function, but also muscle
weakness can be regarded as a serious denominator of impaired muscle function.
Strength training is therefore expected to reduce limitations in activities of
children with CP who will encounter life long disability. However, systematic
strength training has received little attention until now.
Study objective
The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a strength training
program on physical functioning in children with CP.
Study design
Participants will be randomly allocated to a school-based strength training
program, with a frequency of three times a week and a duration of 12 weeks, or
to a control group following their usual therapy program. Measurements will be
performed before the training program, and after 6 and 12 weeks of training. In
addition, a follow-up measurement at 6 weeks after the end of the program will
be performed to investigate long-term effects.
Intervention
The group training program will be based on an existing individual training
program for children with CP and will be further developed according to current
guidelines for strength training in children. Strength training exercises and
training of functional activities will be combined.
Study burden and risks
It is hypothesized that a structured and regular strength training program
increases muscle strength, which is expected to improve physical functioning in
children with CP, without any adverse effect on muscle spasticity. Muscle
soreness is likely to occur, but is also expected to be temporarely. Joint
complaints are the most likely physical complaints. Risks are comparable to
usual sport and therapy situations.
Postbus 7057
1007 MB Amsterdam
Nederland
Postbus 7057
1007 MB Amsterdam
Nederland
Listed location countries
Age
Inclusion criteria
Children with spastic hemiplegia and diplegia, with GMFCS levels I, II and III (ambulant with and without aids, Palissano 1997) and aged from 6 to 13 years, will participate.
Exclusion criteria
Children will be excluded if they have instable seizures, if they received (surgical) treatment for spasticity or surgical procedures up to 4 months prior to the study (or planned in the study period), if there is an expected change in medication during the study period, or if they suffer of other diseases that interfere with physical activity (judged by the physician).
Design
Recruitment
Followed up by the following (possibly more current) registration
No registrations found.
Other (possibly less up-to-date) registrations in this register
No registrations found.
In other registers
| Register | ID |
|---|---|
| CCMO | NL16552.029.07 |